The project's primary aim was to provide permanent and free access to an online learning opportunity, through a dedicated portal (MOOC), aimed mainly at trainers, volunteers and staff working in day centers for non-self-sufficient elderly people or retirement homes. . The intention was to share good practices and create open educational resources, organized into three sections: training, with teaching materials and courses in PDF and MOOCs; best practices, a collection of web resources and apps to facilitate the learning of elderly people in the use of the internet, smartphones, and information technologies, as well as games for cognitive stimulation and physical activity programs; and finally, a section dedicated to the description and diary of the project. The specific objectives concerned the promotion of digital skills to overcome barriers related to access, trust and motivation of older people over 70, contributing to the creation of a more digitally inclusive society. The project also aimed to network and strengthen the capacities and skills of partner staff.
Europe is facing accelerated demographic ageing, with a prediction that almost 2/8 of its population will be over 70 by 2060. This age group faces increasing health problems, including a significant prevalence of dementia, with 13 % of 70-84 year olds, 24% of 85-89 year olds, and 35% of 90+ year olds affected. Without current treatments for dementia, the increase in older people highlights the need to better manage this condition. Contrary to stereotypes that view older adults primarily as welfare burdens, many have the potential to actively contribute to their communities. The project explores how digital skills and the use of social media can reduce loneliness and social exclusion in older adults, while promoting activities that can prevent dementia. Furthermore, the project aims to develop a tool that integrates the skills acquired in previous initiatives, with web content and training for trainers in English, also translated into Slovenian, Italian and Spanish, thus addressing a common need in European countries for inclusive and preventive against aging and dementia.