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Digital education for seniors: New smartphone courses from 2026!
In 2026, the Anklam Adult Education Center will offer smartphone and PC courses for seniors to overcome digital fears.
Digital education for seniors: New smartphone courses from 2026!
You often hear from older people in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania that they are literally on edge when it comes to modern technology. But that doesn't have to be the case! Many people want to prepare themselves for the digital world and acquire the necessary knowledge to be able to better deal with everyday challenges. Dominik Nauke, lecturer at the adult education center (VHS) in Anklam, also recognized this. He has been offering smartphone courses for some time now, which are fortunately very well received. Again Uckermark courier reports, new, tried-and-tested course content is being planned for 2026, which will expand the offering.
These courses are specifically designed to reduce fear of contact and overcome moments of frustration when dealing with modern technology. Individual questions and how to use private devices are addressed in small groups. Many seniors are technically equipped, but often feel insecure when dealing with new devices and digital services. However, digitalization brings with it some advantages, be it when buying train tickets, online banking or photography.
A wide range of courses on offer
From March 2026, the following courses will be on the program: A three-part basic course on smartphones, a basic course for PC and laptop use and a compact course “Fit for the Office” on MS Office applications. Newly added is an application training course that deals with profile building, strengths and job analysis, the creation of application documents and interview training. The courses start as soon as the VHS moves into its newly renovated premises on Leipziger Allee. Information about courses and costs is available from Andrea Jager, the location manager in Anklam.
But digital education for seniors is not only supported in Anklam, but also in other parts of Germany. The “Test Shop” project in Jena is an excellent example of how older people can make it easier to enter the digital world. Here you can answer your questions about smartphones and digital applications under expert guidance. The cozy ambience of a former shoe store, equipped with seating areas and modern technology, promotes a learning atmosphere. The offers, which are financed by federal funds, have already attracted around 4,500 people in the first year and offer valuable support for digital participation.
As one user, who is over 80 years old, confirms, independence from family help is of great value to her. The support of media educators not only enables independent learning, but also brings a clear structure to the often overwhelming jungle of digital-specific questions. This increasingly alleviates concerns about being overwhelmed and participants feel better prepared for the digital future.
Against this background, the educational offerings in Anklam and Jena underline the important role that digital education plays in the everyday lives of older people. This initiative has the potential to not only expand individual knowledge, but also significantly increase participants' self-confidence and quality of life. At a time when the use of digital devices is increasing, it is more important than ever to grant unrestricted access to such low-threshold, practical offers and to secure them in the long term, emphasize experts in various areas.