The pandemic broke our routine in 2020. When gathering with friends is no longer easy, social software becomes important tool to maintain interpersonal relationships and grasp latest information. However, it generates more problems for elderly who are not familiar with new technologies. With the sponsorship from Kids4Kids Foundation, “We Dare” young volunteers from YWCA Butterfly Bay Integrated Social Service Centre collaborated with Pok Oi Hospital Wong Muk Fung Memorial Elderly Health Support and Learning Centre to organise classes for elderly to have a closer look at different social apps.

Engaging elderly with novel ideas is never easy. It is even harder when only virtual activities were allowed during the pandemic. Therefore, our young volunteers composed short videos with the content and shared them online for the elderly to watch at home.

When the pandemic eased slightly, the volunteers immediately seized the opportunity to hold face-to-face classes on the usage of Facebook and other communication softwares, like Zoom. Elderly can then communicate with the outside world, reassuring their family members who are not living together. They can also meet new friends and participate in various online courses organised by the center, living a splendid retirement life.

Making good use of technology can help us overcome physical limitations. To help more elderly get familiar with popular social apps, 10 short videos have been uploaded to YouTube for free, introducing how to surf the Internet with browser, send messages via WhatsApp, and tips for Facebook and Zoom. The videos are suitable for elderly with less online experience.

“We Dare” YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-rnNcd-4wTfUIdn1EA-KwA/playlists