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Veteran BBC presenter Johnny Ball has opened up about the challenges of aging, particularly following his prostate cancer diagnosis three years ago. At 87, the beloved host of the children’s TV favorite “Play School” is calling on older individuals to embrace the digital age. Ball, who is also the father of presenter Zoe Ball, has teamed up with BT Group and the UK charity AbilityNet to help seniors improve their digital skills and keep pace with the evolving online world.
In a revealing interview, Ball admitted that he has struggled to keep up with modern technology. Tasks that have moved online, such as booking doctor’s appointments or paying for parking, have posed difficulties for him.
“For nearly 50 years, I dedicated myself to teaching children science and math in an engaging manner,” Ball shared. “Now, I hope to inspire today’s parents to embrace technology to simplify their daily routines.”
He continued, “For some, navigating basic tech tasks like arranging a GP appointment or handling parking payments online can be intimidating. I feel that too, sometimes. What should take minutes often took me days.”
Ball admitted he still requires assistance for certain tasks, like sending WhatsApp messages or using social media, often turning to his wife, Di, or his daughter, Zoe, for help. However, he is gradually overcoming these digital hurdles, which is enhancing his sense of independence.
He added: “But the more skills you have the more confidence you feel, so that with practice you’ll find you will be able to reclaim much of the time you took grappling with an app or a website.
“Take it from me, digital tasks are easier than you think. So, like me, you will feel a huge sense of achievement and joy when you get to the point of doing something new, comfortably.”
His comments follow the BT Group’s revelation that fears surrounding digital safety are holding many older people back. A third of over-65s say the rise in online scams makes them reluctant to carry out online tasks.
Speaking about the campaign, BT Group’s Responsible Business Director, Richard Mash, said: “Johnny Ball has opened the world of maths and science to millions of children.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside him and to help empower those in his generation who are eager to embrace new skills. Our research shows that older people who lack confidence online are losing hours grappling with new technology.
“By enrolling in one of our free courses with AbilityNet, they can learn these simple skills, reclaim their time, and not feel so left behind.” To find out more about BT Group and AbilityNet’s free digital skills support, head to https://abilitynet.org.uk/
