Berlin launches digital network for older people – find out now!

Berlin launches digital network for older people – find out now!

On July 8, 2025, the Berlin network “Digital Empowerment in Old Age” was founded, which aims to address an urgent need for digital participation among older people in an increasingly digitalized society. Important partners are involved in the initiative, including the AWO Senior Network Berlin and the Berlin State Competence Center Care 4.0, which work together on behalf of the Senate Department for Science, Health and Care (SenWGP). This foundation is particularly relevant in the context of the challenges that many older people face when dealing with digital technologies.

The main goal of the network is to make it easier for older citizens to access digital media in order to promote their self-determination in the digital world. This is done through the exchange of information and training. The need for such a network is underlined by the increasing digitalization in the public sector, especially in administration and healthcare. The network creates a platform for voluntary and full-time companions of seniors to strengthen their digital skills.

Structures and offers of the network

The network is aimed at people who support older people and offers a concentrated point of contact for the exchange of experiences and materials. Needs are also determined and appropriate further training is organized. A coordination team consisting of experienced actors and organizations in the field of digital empowerment will support the implementation of the measures. The aim is to create an overview of low-threshold learning opportunities for seniors.

The network's commitment promotes the digital inclusion of older people, regardless of their income, level of education or health restrictions. This objective corresponds to the opinion of the Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ), which sees digital skills as an essential prerequisite for social participation. This is also supported by initiatives such as the DigitalPakt Alter, which is intended to strengthen the digital participation of older people.

Challenges and social responsibility

The network addresses key challenges such as insufficient digital knowledge, lack of access to devices and the Internet, and fears when dealing with new technologies. The AWO Senior Network Berlin has gained extensive experience over the last five years and offers over 1,400 free, barrier-free activities and information on a multilingual online platform. These initiatives are part of efforts to improve the digital participation of older people in Berlin and to enable them to use digital media safely.

Franz Müntefering, Chairman of BAGSO, emphasized the need to promote digital skills in every municipality. The “Digital Empowerment in Old Age” network could have a preventive effect and prepare older people for digital challenges. The “Digitization and Education for Older People” service center at BAGSO is also a central point of contact when creating information portals and events.

As the International Day of Older People 2021 made clear, digital justice and participation for all age groups are a social task that must be overcome. The digital inclusion of older people is not only a technical challenge, but also a social responsibility that is essential for a self-determined life in old age. The coming years will be crucial for how these needs are taken into account in the digital infrastructure of Berlin and beyond.

In summary, the founding of the “Digital Empowerment in Old Age” network shows that the digital participation of older people in Berlin society is not just a political concern, but a task for society as a whole. This initiative could serve as a model for similar projects nationwide to bridge the digital divide between generations.

Further information can be found on the website Technical University of Berlin, dem Association office and on the website of the BMFSFJ.