February 2021 Network News

CTN IS HELPING SOLVE ONLINE VACCINE REGISTRATION ISSUES

According to a report by the Older Adults Technology Services, nearly 22 million American seniors do not have broadband access at home, representing 42 percent of the nation’s over-65 population. As a result, many seniors are struggling to register for their COVID-19 vaccinations.

While lack of connectivity is a major hurdle to getting seniors vaccinated, it is not only access to the internet which is lacking. It is a lack of training, education, and digital literacy. Seniors might lack an email address to register an online account. Some websites have confusing interfaces that are difficult to navigate. High demand is crashing call centers — causing seniors to ask their questions by email and reading FAQ pages. Appointment calendars, pop-up windows, and multiple links add to the confusion.

CTN is facing this problem head-on. Our digital coaches will now discuss the registration process with Home Connect participants and answer any questions they have. We have also compiled a vaccine resource page to share with our learners and community. This page will be continually updated with the latest information regarding vaccination locations, transportation, and online registration. Now more than ever, older adults need internet training — and Community Tech Network is providing the digital skills necessary to remain safe, connected, and healthy.

COMMUNITY TECH NETWORK SPOTLIGHT

PARTNER: TECH ALLIES 2.0

In collaboration with our partner Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly (LBFE), CTN launched Tech Allies 2.0. This new program will allow learners to move beyond basic digital skills and focus on health and communications.

EMPLOYEE: EMMA REEDER

We are excited to welcome Emma Reeder to our team as CTN’s first bilingual training and administrative associate! A junior at St. Olaf’s college, Emma is passionate about lessening the language barrier when it comes to accessing technology.

VOLUNTEER: SEAN LEE

After discovering CTN’s need for Cantonese-speaking volunteers to work with older adults, Sean Lee felt it was the perfect opportunity to utilize his digital and bilingual skills for a cause he is passionate about.

CTN IN THE NEWS

Vox.com featured Community Tech Network in a recent article, “A big hurdle for older Americans trying to get vaccinated: Using the internet.” Lauren Cotter— CTN’s Marketing Director— discusses the challenges our learners face in getting registered for the vaccine online.

Read the full article on Vox.com.

Programs Can Help Older Adults Get or Upgrade Computers, Internet Access

CTN is cited as being among the country’s Non-Profit leaders with programs that help at-risk seniors get devices, get online, and learn valuable internet skills.