growing – Peter Hughes

Growing Older in a Digital World: Maintaining Digital Presence and Addressing Challenges of Technology and Security

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Introduction
The growing use of technology and the increasing reliance on digital platforms have revolutionised how we live and communicate. As we age, the need to maintain our digital presence becomes more critical, especially as technology and security measures continue to evolve. This blog post explores the challenges of growing older in a digital world and the strategies we can adopt to maintain our online presence. It also examines the possibility of adding delegates to our online accounts and the implications for data protection measures such as GDPR.

Growing Older in a Digital World
As we grow older, our cognitive and physical abilities tend to decline, making navigating technology and security measures more challenging. This is particularly true for older people with limited technology experience or physical disabilities that make it harder to use digital devices. According to a report by the Pew Research Center, only 73% of adults aged 65 and older use the internet, compared to 99% of adults aged 18 to 29 (Perrin, 2019).

In addition to the challenges of using technology, older people are more vulnerable to cyber threats such as identity theft, phishing scams, and other forms of online fraud. This is because older adults tend to be more trusting and less aware of the risks of using digital platforms (Brooke & Ngwenyama, 2016).

Maintaining Digital Presence as We Age
Despite these challenges, it is essential to maintain our digital presence as we age. This is because digital platforms have become integral to our lives, allowing us to stay connected with family and friends, access information and services, and engage in online communities.

One strategy to maintain our digital presence is to adopt user-friendly technology designed specifically for older people. For example, there are now devices such as smartphones and tablets with larger screens, simplified interfaces, and voice assistants that can make it easier for older adults to use technology (Drewnowski & Rehm, 2018).

Another strategy is to stay informed about the latest security measures and cyber threats. This can involve taking online courses or attending workshops that provide information about online safety and security. It can also involve using multi-factor authentication and other security measures to protect our online accounts from unauthorised access (Zhang et al., 2018).

Adding Delegates to Online Accounts
Another solution that can help older people maintain their digital presence is to allow them to add delegates to their online accounts. Delegates are individuals authorised to access an account on behalf of the account holder. This can be particularly useful for older people who may have difficulty navigating security measures or need assistance managing their online accounts.

However, there are some potential challenges and implications for data protection measures such as GDPR. For example, allowing delegates to access personal data on behalf of an account holder raises questions about data ownership, consent, and accountability. It is essential to ensure that the account holder explicitly authorises any delegate access and that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect personal data.

Conclusion
As we age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain our digital presence, even as technology and security measures continue to evolve. Strategies such as using user-friendly technology, staying informed about cyber threats, and adding delegates to online accounts can help older people stay connected and engaged in a digital world. However, it is crucial to consider the implications of data protection measures such as GDPR and to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect personal data. Technology we design today must be forward thinking and work for us as we grow older, if we are developing products, applications, technologies or setting standards we have the responsibility to design for everyone.

References:
Brooke, J., & Ngwenyama, O. (2016). Age-related differences in information security awareness. Computers in Human Behavior, 63, 568-578.

Drewnowski, A., & Rehm, C. D. (2018). The potential of technology to help older adults with socialisation. Current Opinion in Psychiatry,

Empowering Your Child Through Sport and Esports: Tips for Parents

Reading Time: 2 minutes

As parents, it is natural to want the best for our children. One way we can do this is by allowing them to express themselves through sport and e-sports.

Participating in sports and e-sports can provide numerous benefits for children. It can help them develop physically, as well as improve their mental and emotional well-being. It can also teach them important life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and discipline.

But in order for children to get the most out of these activities, it is important to approach them in the right way. Here are some tips for getting the best out of your children if you allow them to express themselves through sport and esports:

Encourage a growth mindset: Instead of focusing on the outcome of the game or competition, encourage your child to focus on the process and the effort they put in. This will help them develop a growth mindset, which is the belief that they can improve and learn through hard work and effort.
Support their interests: Whether your child is interested in football, darts, or Fortnite, it is important to support their interests and passions. This will help them feel valued and motivated to continue pursuing their goals.
Set achievable goals: Help your child set achievable goals for themselves, whether it be improving their shooting accuracy in football or reaching a certain rank in an online game. This will give them something to work towards and help them feel a sense of accomplishment when they achieve their goals.
Encourage teamwork: Both sports and esports require teamwork and cooperation. Encourage your child to work with their teammates and to be a good sport, whether they win or lose.
Foster a love of learning: Encourage your child to learn as much as they can about their sport or game. This could mean watching instructional videos or reading about strategies and tactics. This will help them improve and also foster a love of learning.

By following these tips, you can help your child get the most out of their participation in sport and esports. Whether they become professional athletes or esports champions, the skills and lessons they learn through these activities will serve them well throughout their lives.

Reflecting on My School Years: Inside and Outside the Classroom (1995-2000)

Reading Time: 2 minutes

I recently found a word document of what I had done inside and outside of school from 1995-2000. It’s funny reflecting back on these things.

Inside School

1995-2000 I was a member of the school football team. This helped me build on communication skills, teamwork and discipline.

1995 I was a member of the school debating team. This helped me build on communication skills, teamwork and discipline. I learned how to co-ordinate work and how to co-operate with other students.

1995-1996 Played the ‘Lord Mayor’ in the first year production of “The Thwarting of Barn Bolagrew”

1996 I had a poem published in a poetry anthology.

1997 I received the prize for ‘Creative Writing’ at prize giving.

1999-2000 I received a certificate for achieving most Credit Awards in Year twelve.

Outside school

1995-1997 Attended a Badminton club

1995-1998 Attended Gerry Armstrong Soccer School

1996-2000 Worked part time helping in a computer repair and sales shop

1997-1998 I was selected to play soccer for Tyrone

1997-2000 I was able to set up an Internet web site and currently maintain and update the site.

My name is Peter Hughes. I am a year twelve student at Drumragh College. My last year at school has been a very busy one. I am working extremely hard for my GCSE examinations. I am studying English Language, Maths, Double Awards Science, French, Technology, Information Systems and GCSE short course Religious Education. I have been able to complete and hand in coursework on time and continued with my part time job in a local computer shop. Through this experience I have learned how to manage my time effectively.

I consider myself to be trustworthy, reliable and very co-operative. I always try to arrive at school and class on time. I always do as I am told in and outside of school and try my best in all areas of life. I often stay after school and attend extra curricular clubs in many areas including Information Systems, Technology, English, Maths and Science.

During my last year at school I went on work experience to P.C. Limited. I thought this was very enjoyable as my interests are in the area of computers. I am also interested in a career in aviation with the Royal Air Force. I have developed this through reading books about technology and flight.

I would like to return to school to study ‘A’ level or ‘GNVQ’s.

I know that if I wish to do so I will have to study very hard now and in the future.

Looking back I didn’t do my A levels I started them and after a couple of weeks left to work full time. There are many different paths! Today my interests haven’t really strayed too much. I’m still an aviation and computer geek :-).