Digital Literacy







Digital Literacy & Safe Technology Use | Primary Health Awareness Trust

🌐 Digital Literacy & Safe Technology Use Hub

Welcome to our expertly crafted hub designed for older adults who want to build confidence with technology, stay safe online, and protect their digital wellbeing. Created by The Primary Health Awareness Trust, this NHS-level guide offers practical support, emotional reassurance, and modern tools β€” all in one place.


1. Why Digital Literacy Matters in Later Life

Discover why learning digital skills supports independence, brain health, and daily life β€” even if you’re brand new to tech.

🧠 Try This: Download a word or number game and play for 10 minutes.

2. Navigating the Online World Safely

Learn how to avoid scams, spot fake websites, and browse the internet with confidence and calm.

πŸ” Try This: Compare a real NHS link to a scammy health claim online.

3. Smartphones Simplified – Getting the Most from Your Device

Beginner-friendly tips for using your phone confidently β€” from enlarging text to using voice assistants.

πŸ“± Try This: Say β€œHey Siri, what’s the weather today?” and see what happens.

4. Video Calling, Zoom & Staying in Touch Digitally

Simple tutorials for using Zoom, WhatsApp, and FaceTime to connect with friends and family.

πŸŽ₯ Try This: Schedule a 5-minute video call with a loved one today.

5. Email, Text, and Messaging – The Modern Way to Communicate

Step-by-step advice for using email and messages safely, with tips for attaching photos and spotting spam.

πŸ’Œ Try This: Send a message of thanks to someone who’s helped you this month.

6. How to Recognise & Avoid Misinformation Online

Learn how to spot fake news, use fact-checking tools, and stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.

πŸ”Ž Try This: Google a health claim with the word β€œmyth” β€” see what you find.

7. Understanding AI and Digital Assistants

Demystify artificial intelligence and explore how tools like Siri or Alexa can help (and when to be cautious).

πŸ€– Try This: Visit our Cognitive Resilience Hub and complete the AI-human test!

8. Online Banking, Bills, and Digital Payments

Get to grips with online money management β€” safely and with peace of mind.

πŸ’³ Try This: Set up a transaction alert or ask someone to help you check one.

9. Digital Tools for Daily Health & Wellbeing

Explore apps and services that help you manage medication, stay active, and support your health routine.

πŸ“² Try This: Use a health app today and write down one thing you learned.

10. Becoming a Tech-Confident Older Adult

A gentle guide to celebrating how far you’ve come β€” and how to support others now.

✨ Try This: List 3 tech skills you’ve gained this year. Who could you teach?

πŸ“š Bonus Resources

πŸ”— Return to Healthy Ageing Hub

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