David's Journey to Discovering a New World

Meet David, a spirited 90-year-old whose digital journey began with a touch of apprehension. "I was reluctant to all technology at first. I had made it through most of my life without gadgets and devices and felt no need to learn, especially being 80-something at the time," David reminisces. However, the winds of change blew in the form of lockdowns, which forced David to reconsider his stance. The limited social interactions made him realise the potential of technology to connect with his family.

He caught a neighbour talking about the Age UK Hammersmith & Fulham Activity Centre reopening now the lockdowns were over. "I heard the lunch was always affordable and tasty, so I had to check it out myself."

"After visiting for lunch the first few times, I had a better look around the centre. I came across the computer room and met James in there. He was hilarious and around the same age as me; it gave me enough confidence to sign up for lessons," David recounts.

Learning Together:

Having already embarked on his digital journey, James became a crucial ally in David's. "Teaching David the little bits I had learned in previous lessons helped make them stick," James remarks. Together, they navigated the challenges of typing, internet exploration, and mastering the art of sending a text. "The staff and volunteers always took their time with us, so we made sure to practice together so as not to forget."

A New Language:

David says their journey wasn't always smooth sailing, but they're happy that they kept learning. "Learning my way around the computer was challenging. Remembering where everything was placed had the be the most difficult of them all, but now my niece is teaching me how to use emojis," David shares with a grin. "She sends me funny videos all the time and checks to see how I’m doing. I feel like I have a better understanding of her world, and I'm happy to be keeping up with the kids... and James."

The transformation in David's life goes beyond mastering technology; it's about breaking down barriers of digital poverty and embracing newfound independence.

"Now we just give each other a text. Especially if we’ve found something interesting to read. What a difference the lessons have made!" James reflects, underscoring the impact of their shared digital journey.

From Digital Poverty to Independence:

David's story epitomises the transition from digital poverty to empowerment. Armed with just a smartphone, he has not only conquered the fears of the digital realm but has also embraced connection.

As we celebrate David's and James' triumph, stay tuned as we'll check in with them again to see where his journey takes him next.