Gluu Essentials Digital Skills Training for Middle-Aged and Older Adults That Makes Skills Stick: Results of a Pre-Post Intervention Study

Abstract

Background A number of real-world digital literacy training programs exist to support engagement with mobile devices, but these have been understudied. Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness and program acceptability of a digital skills training program among middle-aged and older adults (aged ≥50 years) and to gather participants’ recommendations for lifelong digital skills promotion. Methods The Gluu Essentials digital skills training program includes learning resources to support tablet use. Through pre-post surveys, this study assessed mobile device proficiency, confidence in going online and in avoiding frauds and scams, the frequency of engaging in online activities, program engagement, acceptability, and suggestions for continued support. Results A total of 270 middle-aged and older adults completed baseline surveys. Of these 270 participants, 145 (53.7%) completed follow-up surveys. Our findings indicate that mobile device proficiency increased (P<.001), whereas confidence was unchanged. Participants also reported going online more frequently to shop (P=.01) and access government services (P=.02) at follow-up. Program engagement varied considerably, but program acceptability was high. Participants’ recommendations included the need for providing ongoing programs for support and training because technology constantly changes, reducing costs for technology and internet access, and keeping learning resources simple and easy to access. Conclusions The Gluu Essentials digital skills training program increased mobile device proficiency and frequency of web-based activities (shopping and accessing government services) among middle-aged and older adults.