4/19/22, 9:06 AM Mail - Agendadesk - Outlook
Agenda Item 3.3: Digital Equity (Public Comment, 4/19/22) M. Cohen Zakai -
Tue 4/19/2022 8:33 AM
To: City Clerk < [email protected]>
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Dear Mayor and Council,
As a senior resident of San Jose, I have personally experienced an increased need for internet access during the pandemic: connecting with family, friends and the world remotely has become more critical than ever to my well-being. I have also observed the consequences for those older adults who lack devices, connectivity, and digital literacy.
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection, severe disease and death; when they are digitally excluded, not only is it more difficult to access telehealth, correct health information, and communicate with their loved ones, but feelings of isolation and despair increase.
Internet access is increasingly being acknowledged as a critical component of health. "Researchers know the lack of internet access is associated with poor health outcomes." https://www.vox.com/22979086/covid-pandemic-deaths-mortality-broadband-internet-access In the spirit of the San Jose Age-Friendly Action Plan, and the city's commitment to make policy and project decisions based on equity, please continue to provide digital devices, with no pause in the program, to those who need them.
Sincerely,
Marcia Cohen Zakai
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