Digital inclusion remains a significant issue amongst older people. Although the generation gap in internet use is narrowing, with many older people going online to get more out of later life, there is still a huge digital divide. 55% of over 65s lack at least one essential digital skill, and 53% of over 65s have none of the foundational digital skills they need. 

For older people experiencing life transitions, and with care and support needs, being able to go online can be especially valuable - and managing their health can be one of the most significant benefits people can realise. People who are managing changing mobility or long term conditions have more to gain from actively using the internet for their health and wellbeing.

Improving digital skills and confidence among older people remains important - particularly for groups who are most likely to be socially excluded too - those with a low household income, those living in social housing, and those with lower educational attainment. 

While the internet and digital technologies can play a valuable role in enabling older people with care and support needs to get more out of life, there is currently no national provision in England specifically to support older people’s digital inclusion and ensure equal access to online health services.

Through our Pathfinder projects, we’ve been exploring how we can support older people to engage with digital - here we describe what the pathfinders did, their impact and insights around older people and digital inclusion for health. 

Read our report into how to support older people to improve their digital skills in Health

5,600

People reached through local communication and engagement

155

Older people received in-depth support with digital inclusion for health

62%

Of people who completed Learn My Way modules feel more informed about their health

The model

These findings are based on the Pathfinders in Sunderland: Elderly Isolated People and Thanet: Assisted Living Schemes

Guides

Further reading