Did you know that nearly 42% of older Americans (60+) living in the United States do not have high-speed internet at home?
In today’s digital age, access to technology has become more important than ever, and it can have major impacts on individuals’ health and well-being.
Let’s say that you’re an older adult. A health issue arises, and you need to find a specialty doctor, such as a cardiologist or an ophthalmologist. Without access to the internet, you can’t search for professionals in your area.
But maybe you find a specialist based on the recommendation of a friend. The doctor offers you a telehealth appointment, but you’re not sure how to do that. You go in person instead. However, you need to log in to a health portal online after your appointment in order to view your test results. What do you do?
Meanwhile, your grandchild was just born. Unfortunately, your children moved out of state years ago, and you don’t have the money to go visit them. Someone mentions that you can see your loved ones via video call, but you’re confused about how to do that.
Making matters worse, being offline is affecting your food security. You haven’t been feeling well lately and have been fairly homebound. However, you have no idea how to order food online for delivery. You’ve also been struggling financially, but you can’t search online for local food banks or find out how to sign up for government benefits such as food stamps.
Clearly, internet access is crucial to older adults’ emotional and physical health.
Since 2008, Community Tech Network has worked to transform the lives of older adults by helping them get online. We work with senior centers, senior housing developments, public libraries, and social service agencies to provide older adults with free devices and technology classes. We also provide remote classes, which is particularly helpful for older adults who may be homebound or live in rural areas. We help low-income folks sign up for discounted high-speed internet at home, as well.
Help us transform the lives of older Americans. Make a donation to help folks get connected to the internet today.
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