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Enriching the Lives of Mature Adults |
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News More Seniors Use Technology to Stay Connected New study shows Internet use by mature adults up 6 percent (age 50-64); 9 percent (age 65+) March 1, 2005 Technology has become a critical means for older adults to stay connected and find the information they need. A February 2005 National Survey of Seniors' Attitudes on Technology found that seniors are embracing technology in growing numbers. The survey of 750 adults age 50 and older was conducted by Public Strategies Inc., a national public affairs consulting firm. The survey found that 64 percent of adults age 50-64 and 31 percent of adults 65+ are using the Internet, a significant increase over previously reported figures. A February 2004 survey by the Pew Internet and American Life Project found that 58 percent of adults age 50-64 and 22 percent of adults 65+ were online. "We are seeing significant growth in the number of people seeking help to get online," said Marcia Kerz, president of The OASIS Institute, a St. Louis-based national non-profit education organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people age 50 and older. Last year OASIS provided technology training to more than 6,400 mature adults through its education centers in 25 U.S. cities. "Isolation and loneliness are major factors affecting the aging population and can lead to serious health problems. The use of technology to communicate can help alleviate this. As seniors gain access and the skills to use e-mail and the Internet, they are better equipped to stay connected with family, friends and essential information," said Kerz. A June 2003 survey of participants completing OASIS computer classes showed that 81 percent felt more connected to others while 87 percent felt up-to-date and in step with the world. "It's wonderful to be able to communicate with the computer," says Mitzi McCrary of San Diego, Calif. She has taken several computer courses at OASIS and recently had a DSL line installed at home. "I correspond with out-of-state relatives and friends. And I've met some wonderful people in the computer classes. It helps to know that we're all in the same boat." Kerz underscored seniors' need for affordable access to the Internet. The National Survey of Seniors' Attitudes on Technology also asked older adults about their options. Regarding their choices for communications providers, 89 percent of adults age 50+ surveyed were satisfied with their options for local telephone service. In addition, 66 percent felt the cost of their phone service was reasonable, compared to 62 percent of the general public. The survey also explored seniors' attitudes about changes in the telecommunications industry. Since 2000, 33 telecommunications mergers have occurred. Regarding the recent announcement of the merger of SBC and AT&T, 78 percent of the adults 50+ said the merger ³doesnıt matter² to them, compared to 64 percent of the general public "The growth in alternative communications services, including wireless, cable, broadband and long distance companies, has increased the choices available to consumers," said Kerz. The aging population trend also will contribute to an aging workforce. As life expectancy increases, people are working longer or returning to the workforce after retirement. By 2015, 20 percent of the U.S. work force will be over age 55, up from 13 percent in 2000, according to estimates by the National Council on the Aging. This trend has led to growing interest in OASIS programs offering workplace technology skills. New courses to be developed in 2005 will address workplace skills, including spreadsheets, presentations and word processing, as well as job search skills using Internet resources. Founded in 1982, OASIS creates opportunities for mature adults committed to personal growth, community involvement and a deeper understanding of the world around them by offering challenging programs in the arts, humanities, health promotion and volunteer service. For more information:Janice Branham, Director of Communications The OASIS Institute 314.862.2933 ext 229 jbranham@oasisnet.org OASIS News Releases April 28, 2008 OASIS Video to be Broadcast on National Television April 1, 2008 OASIS Receives $2.5 Million from The Atlantic Philanthropies Supporting Business Plan for Expansion October 10, 2007 OASIS Marks 25th Anniversary at National Conference, unveils five-year business plan to increase its impact March 14, 2007 AT&T Foundation Makes $1 Million Technology Grant to The OASIS Institute March 7, 2007 OASIS Receives National Leadership Award from NCOA February 8, 2007 OASIS Plans to Expand Programs to Reach a Broader Audience Atlantic Philanthropies Grant To Support Expansion Plan February 5, 2007 OASIS Institute Names Five Centers of Excellence for 2007-08 November 6, 2006 Marylen Mann Receives Distinguished Alumni Award from Washington University October 30, 2006 OASIS Institute Receives National Award from HHS for Promoting Healthy Lifestyle August 2, 2006 New Research Shows Active Living Every Day a Success at Activating Sedentary Adults June 21, 2006 Four New Directors Elected to the Board of The OASIS Institute April 11, 2006 OASIS Wins National RespectAbility Program of Excellence Award Recognizing Promising Practices in Civic Engagement April 11, 2006 OASIS Awarded $45,000 Grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation for Intergenerational Healthy Lifestyles Program January 24, 2006 OASIS Receives $778,424 in Grants from the Missouri Foundation for Health to Improve Physical and Mental Health for Mature Adults January 18, 2006 OASIS President Participates in White House Conference on Aging December 5, 2005 OASIS Founder Marylen Mann Receives AARP Impact Award August 25, 2005 SBC Foundation Funds OASIS Project to Expand Workforce Development and Community Service June 27, 2005 Survey Finds Older Americans, Baby Boomers Want Jobs With a Purpose April 5, 2005 Department Store Helps City Seniors Find Haven to Continue Learning March 16, 2005 AoA's You Can! Steps to Healthier Aging Campaign Recognizes Joint Project of OASIS and San Antonio Partners March 5, 2005 More Seniors Use Technology to Stay Connected New study shows Internet use by mature adults up 6 percent (age 50-64); 9 percent (age 65+) |
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