The Digital Scouts project aimed to improve digital inclusion for older adults by addressing three main objectives: 1. Improving the availability of high-quality learning opportunities in adult education, combining blended learning and flexible self-learning options. 2. Adequately qualifying Digital Scouts to support older people in using digital tools, enabling them to benefit from the opportunities offered by digitalisation. 3. Promoting digital participation and expanding support offers for older adults, raising awareness among organisations, municipalities, and stakeholders about the importance of accessible digital learning. By pursuing these objectives, the project sought to strengthen the skills of those supporting older adults and to encourage wider, sustainable engagement in digital activities.
The project addressed the urgent need to reduce the digital divide affecting older people, especially in the context of demographic change and digital transformation. While internet access is high across Europe, older adults remain underrepresented online due to low digital skills, lack of interest, and limited support structures. This exclusion increases risks of social isolation and limits participation in cultural, social, economic, and healthcare opportunities. The project therefore focused on strengthening older people’s digital competences, fostering their motivation to use digital tools, and enabling their full participation in society. At the same time, it responded to the need for well-prepared facilitators (“Digital Scouts”) who can provide accessible, flexible, and needs-oriented support. Potential facilitators bring varied prior knowledge and thus require different types of explanatory input—some need guidance in adapting teaching approaches to older learners, while others benefit from insights into digital opportunities and participation. All require integration into local networks and sensitivity to the diverse needs and interests of older people, as personal benefit strongly influences their digital engagement.