Bridging the Digital Divide: How Technology Builds Independence

Bridging the Digital Divide: How Technology Builds Independence

Updated: 12 Oct 2025 • Community & Learning

Technology is meant to make life easier, yet for many people, especially older adults and people with disability, it can often feel like the opposite.

I have seen this firsthand. My mum struggled with online banking and emails, often worried she would “break something” just by clicking the wrong button. Margaret, who lives with a disability, needs regular support to understand new updates, security warnings, and online forms that seem to change every week.

At Troubleshoot IT, I began helping people like them patiently and step by step to build digital confidence. Learning technology should never feel stressful or rushed. Everyone deserves the chance to connect with family, access online services, and use their devices safely and independently.

Often, it is not just about showing someone how to do something once. It involves ongoing education and monitoring, making sure each person feels supported as technology continues to evolve. Whether it involves setting up a phone, using MyGov, or recognising a scam, small moments of confidence can create meaningful independence.

Technology can also be a bridge to connection. For people who find it difficult to leave home, tools such as FaceTime, Teams, or Zoom make it possible to see loved ones and stay part of important moments. Social platforms like Facebook can help people document their stories, share memories, or reconnect with old friends. Even simple actions, such as sending a photo or joining an online conversation, can ease loneliness and build stronger community ties.

That is what Troubleshoot IT is all about: breaking down barriers and building confidence. Technology should empower people rather than overwhelm them, and I am here to make that happen.