Bringing generations together, April-May 2023, Poland

In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, it’s crucial to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, has the opportunity to access and benefit from technology. Stowarzyszenie Szukamy Polski (SSP) recognized this need and embarked on a mission to engage seniors in the AGE (The Learning Age) project. The goal? To empower seniors with digital skills, foster intergenerational connections, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Podlasie. In this article, we’ll delve into how SSP successfully engaged adults in the AGE project.

Understanding the Challenge

Before delving into the methods employed, it’s important to acknowledge the unique challenges seniors face when it comes to embracing technology. While many older adults are increasingly willing to use digital tools, they may encounter hurdles, particularly in areas like video editing. Recognizing this, SSP sought innovative ways to bridge the digital generation gap and make learning enjoyable.

A Meeting with Nishka Natalia Tur

One of the standout strategies employed by SSP was to invite Nishka Natalia Tur, a popular video blogger, to engage with the seniors. Nishka shared insights into her work, introduced the equipment she used, and discussed her experiences in creating video content. This firsthand encounter with a digital influencer not only inspired the seniors but also demystified the world of video production.

Fostering Intergenerational Exchange

A significant breakthrough in engaging seniors came through intergenerational interactions. SSP organized meetings between the elderly and youth, fostering dialogue and the exchange of reflections. These interactions resulted in the establishment of lasting relationships between the generations, as the seniors learned from the tech-savvy youth, and the youth gained valuable insights from the seniors’ life experiences.

Literary Methods and Creative Expression

SSP recognized that seniors often have a knack for details, so they tailored their approach to suit this preference. To help seniors develop digital storytelling skills, the organization employed literary methods such as the five-word story and haiku. These concise literary forms encouraged seniors to synthesize their thoughts and create impactful narratives.

Motivational Impact through Publishing

Publishing the works of the seniors on the webpage podlaskisenior.pl had a profound motivational effect. Seniors could see their creations shared with a wider audience, boosting their confidence and sense of accomplishment. This motivation continues to inspire them to this day, with seniors still actively contributing five-word stories and haiku.

Games, Activities, and Cultural Heritage

To keep the engagement high, SSP incorporated games and activities that seniors enjoyed. Reading books, particularly those centered around the cultural heritage of Podlasie, became an integral part of the project. This approach not only enhanced digital skills but also deepened seniors’ connections to their cultural roots.

Conclusion

Stowarzyszenie Szukamy Polski’s engagement of seniors in the AGE project serves as an inspiring example of bridging the digital divide and fostering intergenerational connections. Through encounters with influencers, intergenerational exchange, creative expression, and a focus on cultural heritage, SSP empowered seniors with digital skills and enriched their lives. The project not only equipped seniors with valuable knowledge but also celebrated the unique stories and talents of the senior community, ensuring that they remain active and engaged in today’s digital age.

Location: Poland

Date: May 2023