Seniors Embracing Digital Technology

Digital technology is increasingly essential for accessing vital services such as healthcare, government programs, banking, communication, and social connection. However, many immigrant and refugee seniors face significant barriers in navigating the digital world.

Unlike younger generations, these seniors often did not grow up with or use digital technologies in their personal or professional lives. As a result, they may lack the foundational digital skills needed to use computers, smartphones, or the internet. In addition, concerns about online scams, data privacy, and cyber fraud lead many to be hesitant or distrustful of technology.

Economic limitations present further obstacles. Many immigrant seniors live on fixed and modest pensions, which can make it difficult to afford devices, internet subscriptions, or technical support. These challenges contribute to a growing digital divide—one that excludes immigrant seniors from full participation in modern society and puts them at greater risk of social isolation and service inaccessibility.

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Impacts

The digital gap among immigrant and refugee seniors has wide-reaching effects on their quality of life, access to services, and overall well-being:

1. Social Isolation and Mental Health Risks
   Without access to digital tools like video calling, messaging apps, or social media, many immigrant seniors experience increased loneliness, especially those separated from family or living alone. This isolation can lead to depression, anxiety, and a sense of exclusion.

2. Barriers to Healthcare Access
   The rise of telehealth and online appointment systems makes healthcare less accessible for those without digital literacy. Seniors may miss medical appointments, struggle to renew prescriptions, or be unable to access health information.

3. Difficulty Accessing Government Services
   Many government services—from pension benefits and housing applications to immigration updates—are now primarily online. Seniors lacking digital skills may depend on others or miss out on critical support.

4. Financial Exclusion
   Online banking, electronic transfers, and digital payment systems are becoming the norm. Seniors without digital access face challenges managing their finances securely or independently.

5. Increased Dependency
   Without digital skills, immigrant seniors often rely heavily on family members or caregivers for day-to-day tasks, reducing their independence and agency.

6. Widening Inequality
   As society becomes more digitally connected, immigrant and refugee seniors risk being left further behind—exacerbating existing inequalities based on age, income, language, and immigration status.

Solutions

At IIMAN Canada, we implement practical, community-based programs to improve digital literacy among immigrant and refugee seniors. These programs should be accessible, culturally sensitive, language-inclusive, and designed to build confidence, not just competence.

1. Digital Literacy Workshops - Regular in-person or hybrid workshops that teach seniors how to use devices and navigate the internet, smartphones and tablets uses, internet safety, using Google Maps, YouTube or online government services.

2. One-on-One Digital Coaching - Personalized tech support sessions with trained volunteers or staff.

3. Intergenerational Mentorship Program - Pair tech-savvy youth (students, family members, volunteers) with seniors to provide tech help and build relationships.

4. Mobile Tech Support Units - Bring help to where seniors live—senior homes, housing complexes, community centers.