We live in an era where technology has become an integral part of our day-to-day activities. Devices such as computers, phones, and tablets have become the key to communicating, researching, learning, and working efficiently. For some time, seniors have been left behind in this digital migration.
Not every senior knows how to maneuver their way around a computer. This is where tablets come in handy. Tablets are the perfect device for older people as they combine the attributes of a phone and a computer. They are portable and functional enough for video chatting, entertainment, or browsing.
However, tablets are not affordable for many seniors. Most of them earn little to no income due to their advanced age. So, how can you get a free tablet if you are a senior? The federal government and non-profit organizations offer programs that enable seniors to own tablets. Keep reading this article to know how to get a free tablet for seniors.
- Why Seniors Need Free Tablets?
- Criteria for Getting Free Tablets for Seniors
- How Can You Search For Free Tablets For Seniors
- Organizations Offering Free Tablets For Seniors
- Technology Assisting People In Need
- Can You Apply for a Free Tablet If You Have Medicaid?
- Bottom Line
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Related Articles
Why Seniors Need Free Tablets?
Besides not being able to afford one, there are several reasons why seniors need free tablets. Here are some of the most important ones:
1) Health
Seniors are one of the most vulnerable groups in society. They can easily suffer from a wide range of health complications. But how can tablets help to solve this? Seniors can use tablets to gather more information on their ailments. There are also many apps on the tablet that can help them check on their vitals and help them to keep fit.
2) Information
Gone are the days when people depended on a good old-fashioned newspaper to get information. All the media outlets and big companies are competing to have the biggest online platform. As a senior, you can get all the information you need without moving a muscle by simply owning a tablet. Tablets can easily access the internet, where you can watch news channels, documentaries, or listen to podcasts.
3) Communication
Like every other person, seniors need to communicate regularly with their friends, families, or workmates. While phones are mostly used for this, tablets are much more convenient for seniors. Their size makes them easier to operate, unlike phones which cause you to strain.
With a tablet, you can video call your loved one who lives in a different state or country. In addition, you can use a tablet as a formal means of communication, e.g., for sending work emails or videoconferencing.
4) Making Applications
Most government assistance programs have the option of applying through their online portal. Tablets have made it simpler for seniors to fill out these online applications. All the information needed to complete an application is at your disposal. Just visit the website using a tablet, and you will find it. You can send a job application using your tablet and have a response sent to you via text or email.
5) Shopping
As a senior, you can now easily buy all the goods and services you need from the comfort of your home. Eccomerce sites such as eBay, Amazon, Etsy, and Walmart have made it easier to shop for items online and have them delivered to you. If you feel hungry and don’t want to cook, you can order food from your favorite restaurant using a tablet.
6) Entertainment
Lastly, tablets can be a great source of entertainment. Many seniors have either retired or are working part-time. This leaves them with a lot of time on their hands. With a tablet, you can watch movies, stream YouTube videos, play games, and watch sports. You can rarely be idle if you have a tablet.
Criteria for Getting Free Tablets for Seniors
Not everyone is eligible for a free tablet from the government or a non-governmental organization. So, what criteria are used to establish those who qualify? To qualify for a free tablet for seniors, you can enroll in the Affordable Connectivity Program.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program
This is one of the latest programs that the Federal Communication Commission came up with to provide tablets and wireless services to vulnerable groups. The ACP offers discounts of up to $30 every month to eligible households to help them cater to their wireless services. It also provides a $100 discount max to assist in purchasing tablets from network providers.
How To Qualify For The Affordable Connectivity Program?
Federal Communication Commission dictates that only households having an income of up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines can qualify for the program. Don’t worry! If you are a senior, other government-aided programs automatically make you eligible for a free tablet. Here they are:
- Supplemental Security Income
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Federal Pell Grant
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
- Food Assistance, e.g., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Medicaid
- Social Security Disability
It is important to note that these programs are classified under Lifeline Assistance Programs provided by the Federal Government. They subsidize the cost of tablets for you, meaning that you won’t get them completely for free.
How Can You Search For Free Tablets For Seniors
If you’re wondering how to get a free tablet for seniors, there are many ways you can approach it. Here are the most effective ones:
1) Just Google!
This is probably the easiest way. It’s amazing what a simple google search can provide. If you have a laptop or phone and stable internet, google search for “free tablet for seniors” programs close to you. The results will give you plenty of options to choose from. You can also view the ratings of various organizations offering free tablets before settling for one.
2) Go To The Organizations Near You
A google search may not be sufficient to get a good organization or program offering free tablets. You can visit the organization at their physical address if you have the time. This will help you to know if the organization is legitimate. It can also help you discuss your situation personally and get a better deal.
3) Well Wishers From Social Media Platforms
Social media has helped to connect people from all over the globe. It allows you to share what is on your mind with your friends and strangers. This makes social media the best place for you to make your plea. You will be surprised by the number of people willing to help seniors get a good tablet.
Organizations Offering Free Tablets For Seniors
Several organizations have lined up to provide seniors with free tablets. They all have different ways in which they carry out their operations. The fastest way to find out if they are available in your location is by visiting their website. Please keep reading to find out more about them.
1) The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is among the largest non-profit organizations that strive to make life better for everyone. Senior Citizens are among the people who can benefit greatly from their generosity.
Any senior whose income is below the federal poverty guidelines can contact them to see if they are eligible for a free tablet. If you can prove that you can’t afford a tablet, they will initiate the procedure to get you one.
2) SmartRiverside
SmartRiverside is a non-profit organization whose goal is to ensure that everyone in the community has access to the latest technology. They believe that everyone can achieve their full potential if they have access to the right online resources.
This organization knows that digital barriers play a big part in the technological divide that is currently happening. They also understand that senior citizens are one of the main victims. That’s why they allow you to apply for a free tablet if you meet their eligibility criteria.
3) Community Tech Network
Community Tech Network wants to change people’s lives by enriching them with digital skills. They have always emphasized the importance of digital skills in this technological era.
This organization trains low-income households in the community so that they are not left behind. Additionally, they offer free tablets. Anyone can go to their site and apply for a free tablet, including seniors. If you meet their guidelines, you will receive an up-to-date tablet.
4) Older Adult Technology Services (OATS)
Older Adult Technology Services is the best organization to send your application for a free tablet to. OATS has traversed the country trying to provide technology to low-income households. Lately, they have also shifted their focus to seniors.
They have helped ensure that seniors live a wholesome life by giving them free tablets. If you meet their criteria, you stand a chance to get a tablet to watch your favorite sports team with.
5) Tech Goes Home
Tech Goes Home is a leading organization providing senior citizens and other vulnerable groups with the tools they need in this digital era. They offer in-house computer training to seniors to help them be independent.
To top it off, they occasionally give away free laptops and tablets to the underprivileged to help them access the internet freely. Unfortunately, they are not available in all states. If you’re interested, confirm from their website if they are currently in your state before sending an application for a free tablet.
6) EveryoneOn
Accessing internet services can be a challenge for many people due to the high costs. Also, devices used, such as tablets and phones, come at a hefty price. This is where EveryoneOn comes in.
EveryoneOn aims to cut the costs of internet services provided by carriers. They also provide tablets and computers to eligible seniors. You can contact them through their website for more information on their free tablets program.
7) Human I-T
The last organization on our list is Human I-T. Their participation in the ACP program has enabled low-income families to receive discounted internet every month. In addition, they have provided devices such as tablets and computers to many people, including seniors.
Human I-T is very strict when vetting who qualifies for a discounted device and who doesn’t. They do this to eliminate people who want to exploit the program for their own benefit. However, if you genuinely qualify, their application process is straightforward. It involves filling out a form on their website.
Technology Assisting People In Need
As the name suggests, this organization assists the less fortunate in society to get their hands on devices such as tablets, computers, and smartphones. Seniors can benefit from them by applying for a device through the procedure recommended on their official website.
Can You Apply for a Free Tablet If You Have Medicaid?
Yes, you can. Most of the time, participating in a medical assistance program like Medicaid automatically qualifies you for a free tablet for seniors. Follow these simple steps to apply:
1) Prepare Your Documents
The first thing you should do is get all the required documents together. These include your ID, social security card, proof of earnings, and proof of address.
2) Make your Application
There are two ways you can complete an application. One is online, and the second one is physically submitting your documents.
3) Approval
The organization you send your application to verifies all the documents you submit before approving you. This may take some time, so be patient. If the process is successful, you will be notified through mail.
Bottom Line
Tablets have become a must-have device in this era. They are very convenient to use as they are light and portable. With a high-end tablet, you can stream your favorite matches, play online games, browse the internet, and even communicate with your loved one.
However, their steep prices have put them out of the reach of many seniors. But by applying for a free tablet one has been simpler by the organizations mentioned above. Try your luck today! Hopefully, this article has elaborated on how to get a free tablet for seniors.