Do you think technology makes us more alone? Discover how multinational telecoms company Vodafone launched a new report into tech’s role in tackling Loneliness.
A new report commissioned by Vodafone UK uncovers how digital technology can tackle Loneliness among those over 50. The report was launched at the House of Commons with Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matthew Hancock MP and Loneliness Minister Mims Davies MP. The report demonstrates that technology making us more alone may be a myth.
Technology makes us more alone = myth.
The report outlines how technology can play a vital role in alleviating Loneliness in older people by keeping them connected to their family and friends for longer.
However, it also highlights that a significant number of older people are not confident in using technology, including accessing the Internet. The report also looks for the first time at the financial implications of Loneliness in the over-50s and reveals a £1.8 billion per year cost to the UK economy.
According to ONS data, a third of older adults (65+) identify themselves as ‘little confident’ or ‘not at all confident in their ability to use electronic devices for essential online activities.
Nick Jeffery, CEO of Vodafone UK, said: “Our report shows how technology and innovation, such as smart devices, and teaching tech skills can play an important role in reducing loneliness and enabling people to live independently for longer.”
Vodafone’s response to tackling lonelinessFollowing these findings, Vodafone is launching a nationwide program of tech masterclasses. Vodafone’s free ‘tech-connect’ masterclasses will occur across the UK in 2019 following a successful pilot last month.
At the masterclasses, Vodafone tech team advisors will provide information and advice on everything from how to set up my phone to how to use social media. They will also help set up wearable tech and connected home devices and explain how they work. These devices can help people live more independently for longer and reduce the chances of mental health issues.
Tackling Loneliness can tackle mental health.
Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said: “Loneliness doesn’t just have an economic cost – it has a profound human cost too and can be hugely damaging to our health and happiness.
“So, we must do everything we can to reduce Loneliness and isolation and provide help to those who need it.
Minister for Loneliness Mims Davies said: “Loneliness is one of the most pressing public health challenges we face, and technology has a huge role in bringing people together.
“Businesses, charities, and government are working together to reduce Loneliness and build more connected communities. Vodafone’s work highlights how digital tech can be a part of the solution.”
