Residents share life stories and learn new skills along the way

Residents worked with Digital Voice to improve their technology skills

Digital Voice is a not-for-profit social enterprise that helps people of all ages and abilities to improve their digital skills by participating in immersive and creative activities. They recently partnered with our BeDigital service to deliver an immersive learning experience for residents.

In total, 12 residents were offered the opportunity to take part in their Digital Storytelling course to improve their skills. The Digital Storytelling course lasted 5 weeks and residents learnt how to produce their own life story using a range of digital tools. 

Essential skills for a digital age

Around a quarter of people aged between 65 – 74 do not regularly use the internet. As an increasing number of products and services become digitalised, having the skills to use new technology is vital. Those who are unable to use a computer, smartphone or the internet risk losing access to services such as banking and shopping or opportunities to stay connected with loved ones. 

We introduced these sessions to residents to build their confidence with using technology. In turn, this provides them with more ways to engage with others and access any services they may need. 

Residents found the course extremely helpful, with one going so far as to saying they found it “life changing”. Another resident said:

A few years ago, it was discovered I had cognitive problems which affect parts of my memory and reasoning. Fortunately, the dementias have been ruled out. It has however forced early retirement on me and a certain loss of self. I find myself asking ‘What do I no longer remember? Am I a different person to what I was before this?’

Most retirees can sit back and recount tales of ‘remember when’. Not so much me.

So now I have this skill and I will be able to pass on and make the most of the memories I have.

So, thank you Julie and Jan.

The Digital Storytelling course was a unique opportunity for our residents to gain new skills, which they will pass on to others. We’re always here to support residents and encourage them to enjoy living in later life, whether that is through learning new skills, embarking on new experiences or continuing with a much loved hobby. There’s always something going on at an Anchor location.

To learn more about our Be Well service, which covers a range of programmes from encouraging activity in later life to resident coffee mornings, click here.