Urging The Executive Office On Aging To Work In Concert With The Hawaii Broadband And Digital Equity Office, Hawaii Broadband Hui, And Aarp Hawaii, To Develop A Standard Training Workshop For Kupuna And Caregivers On How To Select And Purchase Appropriate Broadband Connectivity Equipment And Audio-visual Equipment Such As Tablets, And How To Operate Equipment To Access Telehealth Services.
The resolution aims to strengthen the support system for elder individuals by improving their digital literacy, thereby addressing the technological gap that prevents many from accessing essential services. By promoting training tailored to the kupuna community, the initiative recognizes the importance of not just having access to technology, but also the knowledge to use it effectively. This approach is particularly significant for residents in rural areas of Hawaii, who may face additional barriers to accessing both technology and healthcare.
SCR185 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the Executive Office on Aging to collaborate with various organizations, including the Hawaii Broadband and Digital Equity Office, Hawaii Broadband Hui, and AARP Hawaii, to develop standardized training workshops for kupuna (elders) and caregivers. The primary focus of these workshops will be on selecting and utilizing appropriate broadband and audio-visual equipment, such as tablets, to facilitate access to telehealth services. This initiative stems from the increasing need for telehealth solutions, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, to enhance healthcare accessibility for vulnerable populations, including those relying on Medicaid and Medicare.
The sentiment towards SCR185 has been generally positive, given its focus on enhancing access to healthcare through digital means. Legislative discussions reflect a collective acknowledgment of the challenges faced by seniors in adapting to new technologies and the critical need for supportive measures. The collaborative nature of the resolution, involving state agencies and nonprofit organizations, has garnered support from various stakeholders who see it as a valuable investment in the health and wellbeing of Hawaii's aging population.
Despite the largely favorable reception, there may be discussions around the practicality of implementing such training programs, including budget considerations and the logistics of coordinating among multiple organizations. Questions may arise regarding the adequacy of resources allocated to effectively conduct these workshops and whether they will reach the targeted demographics adequately. The potential for disparities in access to training based on geographic or economic factors may also be a point of contention that necessitates further consideration as the resolution moves forward.