VodafoneZiggo has launched 'Digital Tuesday', an initiative to help older people navigate the challenges of the digital society. These weekly drop-in sessions at selected VodafoneZiggo shops provide older members of society with personal and practical help with all digital queries.
Older people who have difficulty keeping up with the rapid developments in the digital world often feel anxious and unsure when using digital devices. Research by Innovation Inc. shows that many visit telecom shops for help, especially if they don't have family nearby. In crowded shops, however, they can feel overwhelmed and a burden. 'Digital Tuesday' addresses these issues by providing a special drop-in session where extra time and attention are given to various digital issues.
Digital Tuesday: special support for all senior citizens
Every Tuesday from 10 am to 1 pm, specially trained staff are on hand to help the elderly – regardless of whether they are customers. Support ranges from increasing the font size on mobile phones to navigating the internet safely. 'Digital Tuesday' is starting as a pilot in VodafoneZiggo shops in Utrecht Hoog Catharijne, Capelle aan den IJssel, Almere and Sneek, with the aim to extend it nationwide during the course of 2024.
Digital Tuesday scavenger hunt
As part of the launch of 'Digital Tuesday', VodafoneZiggo is organising a digital scavenger hunt in Utrecht, hosted by former newsreader Jan de Hoop. Participants will be given the challenge to carry out digital tasks such as video calling and QR code scanning to help them become more comfortable with digital skills. Participant Ans shares her experience: "Sometimes I find it difficult to use the apps on my phone. My Digibuddy explains everything calmly. Nice!"
Jan de Hoop: "I am very supportive of 'Digital Tuesday' because I believe in the importance of connection. There's often talk about loneliness among the elderly, and if they can communicate via WhatsApp or even video calls, it can actually make a real difference. Additionally, seniors receive tips on how to be safe online. Therefore, I think it's beneficial for everyone, regardless of age, to be digitally savvy, and 'Digital Tuesday' assists with that."
Local digital support network
To complement 'Digital Tuesday', VodafoneZiggo has teamed up with the ‘Alliantie Digitaal Samenleven’ (Digital Society Alliance) to develop a local digital inclusion network. This acts as a referral network for older people who need specialised help with more complex digital issues, such as banking and using DigiD. Additionally, older people can be connected to initiatives that will help them learn digital skills, like the free Welcome Online course.
Laura van Gestel, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at VodafoneZiggo: "We notice that seniors with digital questions often need personal support. During 'Digital Tuesday', our employees in the stores take ample time to answer these questions, so that seniors feel more confident digitally. This way, we keep everyone connected in a rapidly changing digital society."
