It is downright shocking that millions of low-income older adults will lose their broadband connection due to uncertainty of funding.

It is downright shocking that millions of low-income older adults, members of our one of our most vulnerable communities, will lose their broadband connection due to the uncertainty of funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program.  For older adults in financial need, the extension of funding for the ACP is critical.

A broadband connection opens a universe of opportunities and benefits for older adults that grows exponentially.

Will Grammy find that “connection” and get the final rose? While that remains to be seen, we do know older adults are increasingly getting connected to broadband!  While reports indicate there are still a significant number in the aging community who aren’t connected (22 million still don’t have broadband, representing 42% of the 65 and older U.S. population), there are many new and recent 65+ Internet users, thanks to major commitments from the government and industry.

There is one activity that increased during the pandemic: online shopping.  Consumers embrace of e-commerce has been ongoing and continues to grow, with online spending in 2022 skyrocketing to a record $1.3 trillion.¹ In just the second quarter of 2023, we spent nearly $253 million online.²

Today, three-year old Max wants to get on the family computer and see his Grammy on the other side of the country, but she could be one of the approximately 34 percent of those age 65 and olderwho still aren’t connected to the internet at home.

Advances in technology offer a window into infinite possibilities to support independent living and general wellness in our modern world. Using a home high-speed internet/wifi connection, today’s older adult can blast off with a myriad of smart home devices, safety and security tools, entertainment systems, and personal connection devices designed to help with critical communications with family, friends, and health professionals.

Today’s the day for 5-year-old Maya’s Grammy to get serious about her holiday shopping. 71-year-old Jeanette has her list at the ready for the toys and clothes she wants to buy for Maya and her six other grandchildren. The car is in the driveway, her coat is hanging by the door, and her purse is on the hall table. This holiday season, however, she is staying in her slippers and brewing another cup of coffee, opening her laptop, and accomplishing all her shopping online from the comfort of her home. Jeanette is joining the growing number of older adults who have embraced technology, adopted broadband devices, and are making this holiday easier by shopping online. Forget the traffic jams, parking challenges and crowds!