Elderly residents learned how to surf the web and use and understand digital applications and devices on Nov. 9 at the FH Faunteroy Enrichment Center, in the Deanwood neighborhood in Northeast, Washington, D.C. The free event was sponsored by AT&T.
About 25 residents attended the class at the center. There are plans for the two entities to hold another class for seniors in 2018, according to a company representative. The class was part of AT&T’s Digital You initiative, which is designed to help wireless users of all ages use their devices safely and responsibly.
Senior residents in D.C. attended an event at the FH Faunteroy Enrichment Center in Ward 7, to learn about technology. (Courtesy photo)
The Pew Research Center reports that 34 percent of older internet users have little to no confidence using devices to perform tasks online, and many more of them agree they usually need help setting up and figuring out the new applications or devices.
That’s why employees from AT&T locations in D.C., Maryland and Virginia along with other organizations joined together to show seniors how to use smartphones and tablets and also ways to safely navigate the web.
“As technology has become more integral to how we live, it is important that our seniors have the skills and tools to access it. Whether it is staying connected with their children and families, or accessing opportunities, partnerships like this one with AT&T will help our seniors successfully navigate a more technologically connected world,” D.C. Deputy Mayor Courtney Snowden said in a statement.
During the program seniors were given tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of online fraud and scams
Senior residents in D.C. attended an event at the FH Faunteroy Enrichment Center in Ward 7, to learn about technology. (Courtesy photo)
Tony Dixon, president of the Washington, D.C. chapter of The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) said learning the proper way to use devices cuts down on the chances of being scammed.
“Wireless phones, tablets, and related technology give people access to more helpful information than ever before. However, when exploited, such technology can also expose individuals to harmful online scams,” Dixon said. “Events like the one organized by the Faunteroy Center and AT&T empower people with the tools and information they need to avoid these scams while educating them on how to protect themselves against becoming unwary victims of such crimes.”
