Louth campaign asking children to help elderly relatives stay connected online will make Christmas a little easier

A campaign asking young people to teach their older relatives how to use a smart device will ensure families can be connected this Christmas, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Louth TD Fergus O’Dowd praised Louth County Council and Louth Age friendly for coming together to launch a fantastic initiative called the Super Connector Campaign ahead of the festive period.

Deputy O’Dowd said, “This campaign is asking youngsters to teach older relatives how to use technology, so that everyone can stay connected over the festive season and beyond.

“Parents also play a role and are asked to regift or gift a smart device to an older relative or friend at Christmas to help them stay connected.

“This Christmas will be different to those families have enjoyed before due to Covid-19, as in some cases loved ones will not be able to come home and vulnerable older people have to isolate because of the pandemic.

“Young people could teach their older relatives’ these digital skills remotely, with the campaign organisers saying children could take control of the grandparents’ screens by using software such as TeamViewer, so they can teach them to use applications.

“We are all adapting to this new way of living with Covid-19, and we need to ensure that older people stay close to their families and friends and can actively participate in their communities.

“That is why initiatives such as the Super Connector campaign are welcome, in that they encourage older people to learn digital skills and use technology such as Zoom, Facetime and other applications which mean they can talk to their friends and loved ones.

“Agencies like Age Action also have a Getting Started Keep In Touch initiative online, with tutorials people need on how to use their smartphones and other devices.

“Covid-19 has been a lonely and isolating time for a lot of people, and we are all hopeful that we can enjoy some semblance of a normal Christmas as we live with Covid-19. Therefore I am pleased that initiatives like Super Connectors is being launched to make Christmas and the coming months a little bit easier for people,” Deputy O’Dowd concluded.