How Is Michigan's Older Population Connecting Digitally?

Contact: Sally Steiner 517) 373-8230

LANSING - The Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging and the State Advisory Council on Aging are reaching out to Michigan residents 50 and older to see if and how they are using technology in their daily lives. People within this age group are encouraged to take a survey by Dec. 15.

There is a growing interest in what is commonly referred to as the "digital divide," meaning that some population segments use a wide variety of digital devices and others use little, if any. As digital media grows in importance and devices become more intuitive, it is important that older age groups understand how technology may enhance the quality of their lives.

"We know that many older adults are increasingly using the Internet to search for health information, and to communicate with their grandchildren," said Kari Sederburg, Director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. "The survey results will give the Commission and Advisory Council a much clearer sense of where middle-aged and older adults fall in the continuum of technology use and in turn, help determine how best to serve those groups."

The survey may be completed at either of the following two sites:

• www.zoomerang.com/Survey/WEB22DEAV46577
• www.michigan.gov/miseniors. Click on: Take Web Survey on Technology and You!

Paper copies of the survey are available by contacting local Area Agencies on Aging. All survey responses remain confidential.

The Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging advocates for aging policy and approves funding for programs affecting older Michigan residents. The State Advisory Council on Aging offers guidance to the Commission in the conduct of its work.