Cultivating continuing learning and active aging through digital literacy: A digital and social approach
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Abstract
Active aging promotes healthier lifestyles and quality of life. However, the growing digital divide limits older adults' ability to engage in today's technology-driven world fully. The Capacid@de Digital project addresses this challenge by empowering the aging population with digital skills. This paper aims to evaluate the project's impact on the active aging of individuals with limited digital knowledge. Based on structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups with 20 participants aged 60 to 90, the main findings show that digital training improved technological proficiency and strengthened social connections. The results indicate that capacity-building initiatives enabled participants to gain essential digital skills, supporting a more active aging process. These skills enhanced digital Literacy and fostered relationship-building among participants, promoting greater social and digital inclusion. This social impact is vital for reducing isolation and improving the overall well-being of older adults. These results highlight the crucial role of digital Literacy in promoting active aging and provide valuable insights for community programs and policies aimed at bridging the digital divide.
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