Training 65-year-olds to use computers would be a good way to use government money. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
I completely agree that allocating government funds to provide computer training for people aged 65 and above is a worthwhile investment, as it delivers far-reaching benefits for both the elderly group and wider society.
First, such training can greatly improve the quality of later life for senior citizens. In the current digital era, most essential daily services, from making medical appointments, paying utility bills to connecting with family members living far away, are accessible via computers and digital platforms. Without basic digital skills, many elders are trapped in inconvenience and even social isolation. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous elderly people in my community who could not use computers failed to book vaccination slots online or order daily necessities when movement was restricted. After the local government launched free computer training courses for seniors, most participants learned to finish these tasks independently, which drastically reduced their reliance on others and eased their sense of helplessness.
Second, this investment can reduce long-term public spending pressure. When elders are able to access online public services independently, the administrative burden on offline service windows will be lowered, cutting relevant operational costs for the government. Besides, digitally literate seniors are more likely to obtain reliable health information online, which helps them develop healthier living habits and reduces the frequency of avoidable medical visits, thus saving public healthcare expenditure.
While some may argue that government money should be prioritized for other urgent needs like pension payments, training elderly people to use computers is not a waste of resources but a forward-looking measure that supports inclusive social development. It ensures no demographic group is left behind in the digital age, which is a core responsibility of modern governments.