In today's fast-changing digital world, the ability to use technology is becoming increasingly important in everyday life. Many public services are now delivered online and many more are being digitized. However, not everyone has the same access and skills to use them. There are many who for various reasons cannot or do not participate in digital life. It is therefore a question of equality to try and make the transition to digital services as smooth as possible for as many as possible. Statistics show that seniors are disproportionately affected, with many unable to access or benefit from digital tools and services.
To tackle this challenge, we propose to involve communities and organizations by promoting intergenerational communication and volunteering. In this model, young volunteers help seniors to acquire the digital skills they need through informal mentorship. Young people, who are typically digitally fluent, are well-positioned to act as approachable mentors for seniors. Such activities will not only help seniors to become more digital, but also foster intergenerational communication and understanding, which can strengthen community ties. Improved digital skills, and in particular digital self-confidence, will help seniors to access services, communicate with each other and with their relatives, and engage in self-expression and creative activities.
This approach also benefits young volunteers. It is a great opportunity for personal development - they can learn new skills, especially those relating to communication and training, which will be useful for their future career. In addition, interacting with seniors can give volunteers the opportunity to hear interesting life stories, learn from the experiences of older generations and contribute to the well-being of their community by helping seniors to become more digital.
Schools can make a significant contribution to the sustainability of this model. For instance, they can integrate volunteering into their curriculum which would encourage students to take part in projects that help the community.
Meetings between seniors and volunteers can take place in public venues with digital infrastructure (e.g. computers, public Wi-Fi, etc.), providing both safety and support. Municipal public libraries are particularly well-suited in this respect, as well as adult education institutions and universities of the third age (for the university students), community centres or other spaces that make both seniors and youth feel comfortable.
Libraries are already recognized as inclusive community hubs and trusted places for seniors. They also have the necessary infrastructure and resources to offer digital literacy consultations as many of them are equipped with computers, internet access and other technologies that are essential for learning. In addition, libraries have qualified staff who can help coordinate volunteer activities and provide support to both volunteers and seniors.
Another important aspect is the accessibility of meeting locations. They are often conveniently located and easily accessible by public transport. This is particularly important for seniors who may have limited mobility or face other challenges.
Counselling for the older adults can also be undertaken by voluntary organizations, alongside the provision of mainstream social services and home visits, local youth NGOs, students and young professionals from socially responsible companies.
In the following sections, we present two complementary models - the Community Model and the Organization Model - for promoting intergenerational volunteering to strengthen seniors' digital inclusion. These are supported by an overview of the social and legal context, insights from Lithuanian and Nordic experiences, stakeholder perspectives, and practical recommendations for implementation, including consultations with schools, libraries, and senior organizations.