[Webinar] Stories from the Living Lab: advancing digital health literacy

How can we ensure that older adults keep up in an increasingly digital healthcare system? During an international webinar, colleague Leen Broeckx explained how co-creation and hands-on experience are key to improving digital health literacy.

Since 2023, panel manager Leen Broeckx has been actively involved in the Technology and Innovation working group of PAAR-net, an international network that focuses on participatory approaches with and for older adults.

At the invitation of the working group lead, LiCalab presented the results and insights of DigiGezond during an online webinar. DigiGezond is a collaboration between LiCalab and Digidak, a Flemish organization committed to digital inclusion that helps people improve their skills in using computers, smartphones, and the internet. 

Healthcare is rapidly digitalizing. Online patient portals and health apps offer many opportunities, but they also create barriers for those with limited digital skills. As a result, digital health literacy has become a crucial condition for equal access to care, especially for older adults.

In her presentation, Leen highlighted the work of LiCalab. She demonstrated how older adults are not just end users, but can actively contribute to developing training modules and brochures on topics such as finding reliable health information and accessing their own health data.

The webinar explored in depth how participatory approaches help build confidence and skills among older adults. Concrete examples from DigiGezond illustrated how co-creation, accessible guidance, and room for feedback support older adults in navigating online health applications.

Participants Marleen, Denise, and Walter, who took part in the DigiGezond programme, shared their experiences in a testimonial. Their stories emphasized that sustainable innovation is only possible when technology is rooted in real user experiences.

PAAR-net is a COST Action (European Cooperation in Science and Technology, funded by the European Union) and brings together researchers, local authorities, practice organisations and (representatives of) older adults from across Europe. The aim of PAAR-net (Participatory Approaches with Older Adults) is to develop inclusive, participatory approaches that actively involve older adults in support of a diverse and equitable ageing society.