IRT aged care centre and retirement village residents are embracing the opportunity to practice and improve their digital literacy by joining in a range of activities organised by IRT in celebration of Get Online Week.
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Get Online Week, an international digital inclusion campaign by Good Things Foundation, takes place from October 19 to 25.
IRT has partnered with Be Connected, an initiative of the Australian Government, to help its residents improve their online skills so they can make the most of the internet.
IRT Group CEO Patrick Reid says the impact of COVID-19 has underscored the risks associated with digital exclusion for older Australians.
"Everyone deserves the opportunity to safely participate in the online world Mr Reid said.
"This year, digital skills have become more essential than ever for our residents' wellbeing and ability to safely participate in day-to-day activities online such as accessing government and health services, paying bills, online shopping and social video calls with friends and families.
"We're encouraging all residents in our aged care centres and retirement villages to get involved and take advantage of the resources and support available this Get Online Week."
IRT, as part of the week-long celebration, will be hosting a range of events in its residential aged care centres and retirement villages to encourage residents and their families to engage with technology.
IRT's schedule of events for Get Online Week is packed with a combination of in-person and live online information sessions and technology demonstrations, online concerts, an inter-regional trivia tournament and a technology quiz with Samsung tablet giveaways for the digitally savvy winners.
Age Matters volunteers will also be trained to deliver one-on-one support for residents needing help in downloading and using IRT's new smartphone app IRT Connect.
The volunteers will guide residents through the apps' features which include:
- a secure video call function between residents and families or their doctors
- access to important IRT information and updates
- access to important health information (COVID-19)
- retirement village activity calendars, newsletters and updates
- inspiring stories and advice in The Good Life on IRT's website
- home Care schedules, with the ability to request changes and access invoices and
- statements access to Get Online Week Resources.
IRT residents, customers and family members can get started with IRT Connect at www.irt.org.au/irt-connect/.
