New ICT programme for senior citizens launched

The government has launched a programme aimed at encouraging senior citizens to use ICT, with a particular emphasis on social media. They said that Malta’s elderly is lagging behind other European countries when it comes to technological use.

“There are clear indications that the elderly, particularly in northern European countries are increasingly embracing the use of technology in their lives,” a government statement said. “Local studies however, show that 67% of those over 55 years of age have never actually used the Internet.”

They added that knowledge of the Internet can help senior citizens expand their circle of friends, maintain contact with their extended families and allow them to remain abreast of what is happening beyond their close-knit circle of friends and relatives.

“This initiative’s aim is for older people to start appreciating digital technology in all life aspects,” Parliamentary Secretary for the Elderly Justyne Caruana said. “In today’s world, digital technology is a very important means of communication and thus older people should have the opportunity to use it.”
“We are witnessing a growing importance of the ‘silver economy’, the economic activity generated by the senior citizens across many modern societies, including Malta,” Parliamentary Secretary for Economic Growth Jose Herrera added.