The implementation of voice assistants in homes in the regions of Girona has allowed 286 people to access new tools to combat loneliness and the digital divide. The initiative, called "Veus en Xarxa", has been promoted since 2023 by Creu Roja and Fundación Amancio Ortega and extends throughout the Spanish State.
Majority participation of women in Girona
Of the total participants in the province, 245 are women and 41 men. The project is mainly aimed at elderly people who live alone or have difficulties integrating into the digital environment. The device installed in homes allows making video calls, setting medical reminders, receiving alerts about medication intake, and accessing different entertainment options.
Volunteering and digital accompaniment
In Girona, 30 volunteer people form the team that accompanies the users in the adaptation to this technology. The objective is to facilitate the understanding of digital tools and create opportunities for the beneficiaries to visit the spaces of the Creu Roja and participate in workshops and in-person activities.
First step to detect needs
The use of the voice assistant is proposed as a first step to identify user needs and foster personal relationships. The project seeks for technology to be a gateway to new social dynamics and to the improvement of the well-being of older people in the Girona regions.