States to Get Millions to Close Digital Divide

Emphasizing digital inclusion for older adults

AARP has worked closely with state broadband offices over the past year to create digital equity plans, which the federal government has required as a condition for receiving the funding.

Around the country, states plan to use the funding for projects ranging from classes to teach people basic computer skills to setting up device lending programs to get laptops and tablets into the hands of people who need them, especially older adults. Plans also focus on helping people learn how to stay safe on the internet.

Nearly all states will be using some of the money to deploy “digital navigators” in underserved communities, to help people sign up for high-speed internet, get the device they need and learn digital skills,  said Amy Huffman, policy director for the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA).

“It’s helping someone find an affordable broadband offer, or locate a working device or find a skills training class. Or maybe they’re the ones walking someone through how to use a mouse,” Huffman said.

AARP worked with the NDIA to release a playbook this year to help states implement digital equity plans.

Nevada plans to use its $9 million Digital Equity Capacity Grant for an array of initiatives, including the creation of a statewide digital skills training curriculum, and public Wi-Fi and computer labs at libraries and other community institutions, according to a news release from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

The state also plans to create a “device distribution matching fund” with private sector support and a “statewide device distribution ecosystem,” as well as offer digital literacy classes and on-demand technical support, among other initiatives.

“We know that people 50-plus in Nevada, particularly seniors who are Hispanic and Latino, are the most impacted by the lack of access to digital tools and technologies, so we’ll be hyperfocused on helping connect people to these resources,” said Erin Neff, associate director of communications for AARP Nevada.

New efforts around telehealth, fighting isolation

Maine and Puerto Rico plan to use their money to fund “connectivity hubs” in places like libraries, community centers and municipal buildings. In Maine, the hubs would provide workforce training, education and telehealth services.

Digital connectivity is especially vital in a rural state like Maine, where distance and harsh winters can make it difficult for older adults to get to in-person doctor appointments or to visit with friends and family members, said Alf Anderson, AARP Maine advocacy director.

“Being connected on the internet is a way to stay connected with people socially,” he said. “It’s about being able to call your family and friends and being able to share photos or to see them, even if it’s on a screen. These are things that people who are very well connected take for granted.”

Many state plans, including in South Carolina and Nebraska, call for initiatives to help older adults and others connect with their doctor via telehealth, which has been a priority for AARP. States like Arizona, Colorado, Georgia and Iowa plan to deploy health-specific digital navigators, according to NDIA's Huffman. The navigators would walk people through the steps needed to set up a virtual doctor visit or help them download apps like My Chart so they can access test results on their mobile phone.

Some states are eyeing telehealth centers in libraries and other public buildings that provide access to Wi-Fi, devices and assistance, as well as private meeting spaces for the calls.

“Often that little check-in on a telehealth call with someone may keep an older adult from an emergency situation,” said Jina Ragland, advocacy director for AARP Nebraska.

Read more about AARP’s work to close the digital divide and visit our Personal Technology Resource Center to stay abreast of the latest technology.