Committed to improving the lives of Ballina Shire residents living with dementia and their carers, the Ballina Shire Dementia-Friendly Community (BSDFC) Alliance facilitated a digital literacy training program in 2021 to increase confidence with technology and reduce social isolation during COVID-19.

Ballina Shire consists of 30,000 residents, with people aged 65 and over making up 25% of the Ballina Shire population compared to 15% Australia wide. During the pandemic it became clear that one of the hardest hit and vulnerable groups was people living with dementia and their carers.

This valuable training program covered E-Safety, scams, passwords, email, Wi-Fi, Apps, watching and listening online, video calling, social media, mobile banking, MyGov and games.

A survey of the 54 participants added to existing evidence on how increasing digital literacy plays a crucial role in optimising the wellbeing of both those suffering the effects of dementia, as well as those who care for them on a daily basis.

Connecting with friends and family, making more phone calls, using Facebook and email more, all proved to helped build connection and provide support during what has been a very lonely year indeed for many in our community.

Learn more about the wonderful work of the Ballina Shire Dementia Friendly Community, or get involved HERE