Public encouraged to help seniors enter digital age

A new short video encouraging the public to help seniors join the digital era was released on Wednesday, ahead of Double Ninth Festival.

The festival, which falls on Sunday, is a day dedicated to the elderly.

Seniors face a number of obstacles when it comes to using common digital tools and services, such as health QR codes, taxi-hailing apps and self-service checkout at supermarkets, according to the Yangpu District Senior Care Service Development Center, which released the two-minute video.

In moments of difficulty, seniors just need a little help, user-friendly design and patience from their children, the center said. 

A couple in their 70s living in the Yinhang Subdistrict of Yangpu was featured in the video. They say they are still learning and getting accustomed to the digital age. 

"We are able to use WeChat and Alipay now and they are convenient," said grandma Lou. 

"The video speaks for many seniors that we can also grasp the use of intelligent applications if others are willing to teach us," she said. 

The video shows several scenes related to the elderly such as senior-friendly renovation projects in the district, the application of artificial intelligence physical examination machines, and how volunteers help seniors use WeChat, Douyin (whose overseas version is TikTok) and shop at self-service supermarkets. 

"We hope the video can awaken an understanding in the public regarding seniors and city design, charity programs and how children of the elderly can connect seniors with the world at large," said Zhu Lujia, director of the center.