Six month review of our programme

Empowering Seniors Through Simple, Joyful Tech Learning

1. Is There a Need for a Digital Improvers Programme?

I think this is a resounding yes.

The response has been very positive. We have run our pilot clinics full and have quite a few people interested in joining future clinics and that is just through word-of-mouth. Participants consistently enjoy learning practical skills that make daily life easier. They enjoy the company of others as they are all lovely people and we have had a lot of fun.

2. Can Seniors Learn and Retain These Skills?

Yes—with the right approach.

While many seniors are their own toughest critics, we’ve seen that confidence grows when learning is:

• Simple: Focused on real-life tasks like sending messages, setting reminders, or using Apple Maps.

• Repetitive: Reinforcing key actions through practice builds muscle memory.

• Personalised: One-to-one support and small group formats allow us to tailor help to specific needs—like setting up satnav for London buses or simplifying the Home Screen. But, they must put into practice what they have learnt immedietly, otherwise it disappears fast.

We’ve found that emotional reassurance is just as important as technical instruction. Celebrating small wins—like successfully using Notes to capture tasty recipes—goes a long way. A lot of the benefit coming from the clinics has been an increase in confidence.

3. What Learning Methods Work Best?

We’ve developed a three-stage model that resonates:

🧹 Simplify

Decluttering devices to reduce overwhelm:

• Removing unused apps

• Creating a single Home Screen

• Using App Library and Control Centre

• Setting up widgets based on personal needs

🧠 Smarten

Introducing tools that support daily life:

• Calendar for appointments

• Reminders for shopping, medication or events

 •Notes for recipes, books, and TV shows 

• Using voice commands - Siri and dictation = super efficient

🎉 Special Interest Clinics

We’ve begun thinking about themed sessions that spark joy and curiosity:

• Travel: eSIMs, roaming tips, satnavs, Tripadvisor

• Photography: Editing, sharing, and storing memories

• Entertainment: Streaming, podcasts, and audiobooks

These clinics will be immersive, hands-on, and tailored to what seniors actually want to explore.

4. What Didn’t Work?

Online communities like Facebook, blogs, and WhatsApp groups didn’t gain traction. This generation values face-to-face connection, and our in-person clinics remain the gold standard.

5. How Could We Extend the Initiative?

We’re currently two Apple-savvy coaches. To scale, we need:

• Android coaches to support non-Apple users

• Volunteer digital buddies for one-to-one support

• Partnerships with libraries, community centres, and care networks

• Funding or sponsorship to expand reach and offer free sessions

We envision a growing network of tech mentors who bring patience, humour, and practical know-how to every session.

NOTE: we are not sure that we have the time or motivation to take on such a challenge?

6. What Are the Future Challenges We Could Help With?

The tech landscape is shifting fast. Key areas we’re preparing for:

• Apple Intelligence iPhones: Seniors will need help understanding and using new AI features.

• iPad evolution: With major changes to multitasking and interface, we’re planning iPad-specific workshops.

• Digital safety and scams: Ongoing education around privacy, fraud, and safe browsing is essential.

🚀 Call to Action

The first six months have proven that Digital Skills 4 Seniors is not just needed—it’s well appreciated. We’ve seen laughter, lightbulb moments, and some transformation. With more hands, broader device coverage, and continued focus on joy and simplicity, we can reach even more seniors and help them thrive in a digital world.

Do we want to do it? Not sure, but we certainly will continue to look after our pilot group. Personally the two of us have gained a lot. We have loved the challenge of focussing and learning new things from the digital world and our iPhone skills have grown considerably.