Internet a boon to the elderly

To the editor:

I read with interest the St. Louis Post-Dispatch editorial "High-need high speed" reprinted Feb. 13 in the Southeast Missourian and concerning legislation that would give telecommunications companies the incentive to invest in advanced technology in Missouri's smaller communities. I feel expansion of this technology would be beneficial to older adults. The misconception that older Americans are not interested in new technology needs to be dispelled.

Access to technology allows seniors to maintain their status as productive members of our society. It is especially important to note that in rural areas the Internet and e-mail are valuable for people who are experiencing social isolation due to health problems, lack of transportation or caregiving responsibilities. Statistics indicate that seniors are the fastest growing demographic among online users, and they are logging on to the Internet in record numbers.

Senate Bill 1069 would encourage investment and replace outdated regulations that no longer reflect today's competitive telecommunications marketplace.

The Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging supports legislation that benefits our senior population by allowing them to maintain their independent lifestyle and keeps them connected to families, the community and the world.

LANA JOHNSON

Nutrition Project Director

Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging

Cape Girardeau