Meet Digital Champion Michelle

We caught up with Michelle Davies from Age Cymru Dyfed to learn about how she helps the over fifties in West Wales in her role.

So tell us a bit about your role at Age Cymru Dyfed

My role here is Digital Champion. My week involves making home visits to clients of ours who need help or training with digital devices but are unable to travel to one of our offices because they experience mobility and/or health issues. They may have an old device that is having issues, or may want to learn the basics but are unsure what device would suit them. Age Cymru Dyfed have been running a Tablet Loan Scheme where we provide a tablet, internet connectivity and personal training for a period of 6-8 weeks.

This gave our clients the chance to test out the device to see whether they were comfortable with it, and for me to give essential training on its applications, so that they can make an informed decision as to whether they wish to purchase one of their own.

Owning a digital tablet and knowing the basics of how to use it can be a great help; they are then able to complete essential forms online instantly instead of waiting for a posted copy and use email or video calling in order to work remotely, or keep in touch with distant family or friends. It's a very useful device to have, but whether a client has a tablet, laptop or smartphone and are having problems using them, we can help them too by offering either IT support or training. 

Another aspect of my role has been supporting our Virtual Reality for Wellbeing and Meditation Programme. Colleague Haroun and I travel to community venues to demonstrate benefits of experiencing virtual reality to unpaid carers.  They can watch a calming and relaxed experience such as swimming with manatees, see the beauty of Lapland or watch the Milky Way sky over the Sahara desert, all in an immersive 360 degree surround visual.

In our events, these guided meditations via virtual reality have proven to be very beneficial as a relaxation aid, and often you can see the carer's body posture visibly ease. These VR experiences also give us a chance to connect with our clients, and for them to approach us for any help or advice they may need.

And that is my week, and I love every minute of it!

How does this work compare with previous roles?

I previously worked in the IT industry as a purchaser for many years, and left a few years ago to care for my mother who had dementia. The people who helped me and my family at that difficult time really impressed and inspired me to find a role where I was able to support others in some way. Age Cymru Dyfed was there for my mother whenever she needed advice or support, and I’m so very grateful for that, thank you all.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not busy working?

When I’m not working I love spending time with my family and friends, taking nature walks and going on long drives through our beautiful countryside or along our stunning coast. I’ve always been an avid reader and particularly enjoy history, but will read practically anything and I also enjoy watching movies. My challenge of late is to improve my Welsh, and I’m really enjoying the online course that I’m taking for this, and always love learning new things!