Social isolation among older adults can lead to an increased risk of dementia, heart disease, stroke, and mental health conditions. One way to combat social isolation among seniors is by leveraging technology for connection. But roughly a quarter of older adults lack the digital skills necessary to operate a smart device or navigate the internet. 

 

In Bamberg, South Carolina, a nonprofit organization called Palmetto Care Connections is helping residents in rural and underserved areas of South Carolina build essential technology skills. 

 

Seniors who are interested in hands-on beginner training on how to use an internet-enabled device, navigate the internet, and connect with others through tools like email, video calls, and telehealth are eligible to take a free digital training course through Palmetto Care Connections’ Digital Literacy program, Palmetto Connect. 

 

“Social isolation can be a contributing factor to mental health conditions so the technology allows seniors to not only build their confidence in learning something new but also making those connections that they need to thrive in a world where they may not be able to move about,” said Davia Smith, chief community relations officer at PCC.

 

Runell Thomas, a participant at a training held in Barnwell, South Carolina, said before taking the class, she was intimidated by technology. 

 

“Being afraid of how to get on and not being able to use it are some of the main things that I was afraid of; maybe hitting the wrong button or sending the wrong message to the wrong person,” Thomas said. “I’ve never actually been able to search the internet like I want to but this has given me a start where I’m not going to be afraid.” 

 

Online modules are available for anyone who has medical or transportation barriers to attending an in-person training. Individuals in all 46 counties have been reached through the program since it launched in 2021 and more than 3,000 people have completed the training. 

 

 

 

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