High-speed Internet - Ages 65+

High-speed Internet - Ages 65+  in United States

United States

High-speed internet is an important resource for work, education and effective communication. Researchers have identified access to high-speed internet (also known as broadband internet) as a social determinant of health. Many essential activities and services require an internet connection, including telemedicine and telehealth, which became increasingly common during the COVID-19 pandemic. Internet access also provides an avenue for social connectedness. Some studies have found that technology such as smartphones and social networking sites may help combat loneliness among older adults. Despite its necessity, barriers to accessing high-speed internet remain, including cost and deficient infrastructure.

Populations of older adults more likely to lack high-speed internet access include:

• Latino and Black adults compared with white adults.
• Those with less than a high school degree compared with those with higher levels of education.
• Those with an annual household income less than $25,000 compared with those with higher incomes. 
• Those who live in rural areas compared with those who live in urban areas. 

One of the barriers to accessing high-speed internet at home is cost. State policies and strategies that improve broadband internet access include:

• Setting measurable goals and requirements for service speed. Definitions of adequate service speed can help to determine underserved areas that may qualify for funding.
• Offering subsidies and financial incentives to organizations and companies working to improve access to high-speed internet services.
• Establishing a state broadband office dedicated to implementing and managing these programs and funding initiatives.

The National Council on Aging lists several organizations that provide internet and technology education for older adults. AARP highlights programs available to help seniors access the internet, and the Aging Connected program helps older adults find low-cost internet options. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) eligible households can receive discounted or no-cost high-speed internet. Check eligibility requirements and apply here.

Healthy People 2030 has a goal to increase the proportion of adults with broadband internet access.

Amundsen, Diana. 2021. “Digital Technologies as a Panacea for Social Isolation and Loneliness among Older Adults: An Intervention Model for Flourishing and Wellbeing.” Video Journal of Education and Pedagogy 5 (1): 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1163/23644583-00501008.

Bauerly, Brittney Crock, Russell F. McCord, Rachel Hulkower, and Dawn Pepin. 2019. “Broadband Access as a Public Health Issue: The Role of Law in Expanding Broadband Access and Connecting Underserved Communities for Better Health Outcomes.” The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics 47 (S2): 39–42. https://doi.org/10.1177/1073110519857314.

Early, Jody, and Alyssa Hernandez. 2021. “Digital Disenfranchisement and COVID-19: Broadband Internet Access as a Social Determinant of Health.” Health Promotion Practice 22 (5): 605–10. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248399211014490.

Julien, Howard M., Lauren A. Eberly, and Srinath Adusumalli. 2020. “Telemedicine and the Forgotten America.” Circulation 142 (4): 312–14. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.120.048535.

Karimi, Madjid, Euny C. Lee, Sara J. Couture, Aldren Gonzales, Violanda Grigorescu, Scott R. Smith, Nancy De Lew, and Benjamin D. Sommers. 2022. “National Survey Trends in Telehealth Use in 2021: Disparities in Utilization and Audio vs. Video Services.” Issue Brief HP-2022-04. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, Office of Health Policy. https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/4e1853c0b4885112b2994680a58af9ed/telehealth-hps-ib.pdf.

Older Adults Technology Services, Inc. and Humana Foundation. 2021. “Aging Connected: Exposing the Hidden Connectivity Crisis for Older Adults.” https://oats.org/aging-connected-press-release/.

Perrin, Andrew. 2021. “Mobile Technology and Home Broadband 2021.” Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2021/06/03/mobile-technology-and-home-broadband-2021/.

Sen, Keya, Gayle Prybutok, and Victor Prybutok. 2022. “The Use of Digital Technology for Social Wellbeing Reduces Social Isolation in Older Adults: A Systematic Review.” SSM - Population Health 17 (March): 101020. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.101020.

Suran, Melissa. 2022. “Increased Use of Medicare Telehealth During the Pandemic.” JAMA 327 (4): 313. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2021.23332.

Yu, Kexin, Shinyi Wu, and Iris Chi. 2021. “Internet Use and Loneliness of Older Adults Over Time: The Mediating Effect of Social Contact.” Edited by Deborah Carr. The Journals of Gerontology: Series B 76 (3): 541–50. https://doi.org/10.1093/geronb/gbaa004.