This study examines how participatory “Photovoice” methodology can empower older adults in the context of digital inclusion. Set in a post-pandemic urban Chinese community, the project engaged 12 older participants (ages 60–83) in a series of group sessions where they used smartphone photography and dialogue to share their digital life experiences. A Participatory Action Research design was employed, combining structured digital literacy activities with reflexive storytelling and culminating in a public community exhibition. Qualitative analyses reveal a multi-level empowerment process: At the individual level, participants overcame technophobia and gained digital skills and self-efficacy by reframing technology use as self-expression; at the group level, peer support and collective reflection fostered social connection and confidence; and at the community level, public sharing of visual stories amplified older adults’ voices and prompted intergenerational understanding and policy discussions. The findings highlight that beyond technical training, creating spaces for critical reflection and narrative agency can significantly enhance older adults’ digital empowerment. This study offers a replicable model for inclusive digital literacy programming in gerontological social work and underscores the critical role of emotional and community dimensions in bridging the digital divide. By systematically demonstrating how participatory visual methods can be integrated into older adults’ digital education, the study provides concrete guidance for social work and community practice and yields actionable insights for the design of age-friendly digital inclusion policies.