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In today’s world, so much of daily life happens online — staying in touch with family, booking appointments, managing bills, accessing services, or simply enjoying news and entertainment. For many older adults, however, technology can feel confusing, intimidating, or out of reach. Small challenges can quickly become barriers, leading to frustration, reduced independence, or social isolation.
At Home Carers, we often see how empowering it is when older people feel confident using technology — even in simple ways. That’s why we’re proud to feature TechMate, a community organisation dedicated to helping people across Waitaha build digital skills, access technology, and feel supported in the digital world. Through free coaching, patient guidance, and practical support, TechMate helps older adults stay connected, informed, and confident in everyday life.
About TechMate
TechMate is a community-focused organisation supporting people across Waitaha with free digital skills coaching and practical tech support. Their work includes helping people connect through the Skinny Jump programme, making digital access more achievable for those who need it most.
TechMate’s friendly volunteers work with people of all ages (from seniors to job seekers) — offering patient, one-on-one support tailored to each person’s needs. Open to everyone, TechMate plays an important role in building a more inclusive, digitally connected community.
👉 Learn more about their work at www.techmate.org.nz.
How TechMate Supports Older People
Technology doesn’t need to be complicated to be useful. TechMate supports older adults by meeting them where they are and helping them build confidence at their own pace.
They help older people by:
- Providing free, one-on-one digital skills coaching
- Offering practical tech support for phones, tablets, and everyday devices
- Helping people build confidence using email, video calls, and online services
- Supporting access to affordable internet through the Skinny Jump programme
- Teaching essential skills such as online safety, internet browsing, and staying connected
- Creating a welcoming, judgement-free environment for learning
By focusing on patience, encouragement, and real-world needs, TechMate helps older adults feel capable, included, and confident in the digital world.
How Home Carers Complements Their Work
While TechMate provides expert digital coaching and access to technology, Home Carers supports older adults with the day-to-day assistance that helps those skills become part of everyday life.
Our carers can help clients practise what they’ve learned, reinforce routines such as checking emails or joining video calls, and provide reassurance when technology feels overwhelming. We can also assist with device setup, remind clients of TechMate sessions, and help families stay connected through digital communication tools.
Together, TechMate and Home Carers ensure older adults are supported both technically and personally — building confidence, independence, and connection.
👉 Learn more about our in-home support options
Helpful Tips From TechMate: Building Digital Confidence at Home
Learning new technology works best when it’s calm, supportive, and practical. TechMate encourages families to keep things simple and positive.
Here are a few helpful tips to use at home:
💡 Gentle Reminder:
Digital confidence grows with patience and encouragement. Small wins lead to independence, connection, and a sense of achievement.
Explore More Support From TechMate
To learn more about free digital coaching, tech support, or accessing devices and internet, visit www.techmate.org.nz.
You can also:
- Call: 0800 766 763
- Email: Info@techmate.org.nz
For compassionate in-home care that supports confidence, independence, and everyday connection, visit www.homecarers.co.nz.
Together, Home Carers and TechMate help older New Zealanders feel confident, connected, and supported in a digital world.