With a growing number of administrative processes having been relocated to the digital sphere, it has become increasingly difficult for some elderly citizens to keep up with technology and manage life by themselves. To foster a productive exchange with digital natives, the ‘SmartCafé’ in Differdange is now bringing both generations together so that younger and more tech-savvy people can lend a helping hand to those in need – all while enjoying a piece of cake and a cup of coffee.
Speaking to RTL about the initiative, which is supported by the Family Affairs Ministry, Differdange Alderman Jerry Hartung explained that people come to the SmartCafé for both very general and also more specific questions. Anne Frausing from GoldenMe – a non-profit focused on teaching elderly people digital skills who co-run the SmartCafé – noted that some even write down entire pages full of questions, which then generally lead to discussions of broader issues like phishing scams.
Sabine Reuter-Schmitz is one of those eager to learn more about technology and has her eyes set on understanding how to navigate the web and set up an email account. However, she also voiced excitement over the possibilities that tablets offer, saying that she already tried painting on such a device.
The SmartCafé is open every Monday from 2–4pm. Joining the meet-up is free, but people have to register beforehand, which they can do through the websites of GoldenMe and the Differdange municipality.
