Grant to educate older Mainers on technology
STATEWIDE – A new grant is helping senior citizens get educated about technology.
Spectrum Digital Education announced a $50,000 grant for Axiom Education and Training Center to improve and increase internet use by older Mainers.
“We are proud to support an organization doing such important work, getting technology into the hands of Maine’s older adults,” said Vanessa Sinders, senior vice president for congressional and administrative affairs for Charter Communications.
The goal of this grant is to help senior citizens, who have low incomes or live in rural communities, get access to technology.
“Research confirms the negative health effects of chronic isolation and loneliness may be especially harmful for older adults,” said Hon. Joyce A. Maker, who represents Eastern Area Agency on Aging. “Technology creates opportunities to stay connected through a virtual platform.”
Senators Angus King and Susan Collins also joined the conversation in support of the grant, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
“Telehealth increased 80 fold during the pandemic,” Sen. King said. “Imagine how important telehealth can be to a senior in a rural area that’s lacking in transportation, and that’s where we get down to connectivity and the ability to use the technology.”
“It helps them maintain social interactions and connections to family members and friends that are so important to their physical, emotional and mental health,” Sen. Collins said.
An 80-year-old student expressed what this program means to him.
“I’ve enjoyed all of these classes,” said Leslie Stanwood, a student at the training center. “I have no fear now. I can answer any email that comes my way.”
All of the attendees hope this will help keep Maine’s older adults connected and break the digital divide.
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