One of the biggest challenges facing older adults today is the digital divide. As society increasingly relies on technology for everything from healthcare to social connections, those without digital literacy skills face significant barriers. These skills are not only crucial for maintaining personal independence but also for accessing essential services such as telehealth, online banking, and social media, which have become even more important in the post-pandemic world. Additionally, for many adults on fixed incomes, new and updated computers may seem like an unnecessary luxury.
At Jewish Family Services, we are committed to bridging the digital divide in Franklin County. We are excited to continue our efforts as an anchor organization of the Digital Skills Hub program. The Digital Skills Hub is a Franklin County Digital Equity Coalition initiative that provides basic digital skills training and a brand-new computer or tablet to participants at no cost upon completion of the program.
In the fall of 2023, we participated in the initial Digital Skills Hub pilot project. We offered four sessions of the Digital Skills Hub training courses, covering topics such as Google apps, internet search, email, cybersecurity and privacy, and other device basics. Thirty participants completed the training and received free devices. Jewish Family Services will continue as an anchor organization for an expanded Digital Skills Hub pilot from October 2024 through March 2025, during which we will provide free training and devices to 130 participants.
Looking ahead, we are excited to expand the Digital Skills Hub, reaching even more members of the Columbus community. As the program grows, our expertise in working with older adults will remain a vital asset, ensuring that this population remains a central focus of the initiative. As the program evolves, we will ensure that older adults are empowered to embrace technology and all the opportunities it offers.
by Chase Barney
