The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), regarding the Senate Special Committee on Aging’s hearing, “Aging in Place: Can Advances in Technology Help Seniors Live Independently,” led by Chairman Susan Collins (R-ME) and Ranking Member Claire McCaskill (D-MO):
“We commend Chairman Collins and Ranking Member McCaskill for recognizing the need to raise visibility about how technology can empower seniors. Technology helps seniors communicate with loved ones, prolong their independence and maximize their quality of life—from medical alert buttons on GreatCall cellphones, to videoconferencing, to online education opportunities. And smartphones and tablets put a world of information and connectivity at our fingertips, regardless of age or accessibility needs. Matched with smart home technologies and the Internet of Things, these devices now give us control over our environments—locking doors, setting the thermostat, turning lights on and off—without having to move around our homes.
“Our industry takes seriously our responsibility to empower all consumers with the life-changing technologies we produce, and is proud of our continuing collaboration with the Federal Communications Commission on accessibility issues. We established the CEA Foundation to link seniors and people with disabilities with technology to enhance their lives. As a longtime champion of this important issue, the Foundation proudly provides support for accessibility programs such as the American Foundation for the Blind, Older Adults Technology Services and Selfhelp Community Services Virtual Senior Center that use technology to make a real difference.
“We look forward to further cooperation with the Special Committee on Aging as we continue to help innovative nonprofits improve the quality of life for countless Americans.”
