MANILA, Philippines - Filipino seniors who use the Internet for social interaction have been growing steadily thanks to initiatives such as the “Teach Lola” campaign of Bayan Telecommunications (Bayan).
“Over the past years, the Internet has emerged as an integral part of the lives of many Americans, transforming the way in which they get information and communicate with others,” says John Rojo, Bayan’s VP for corporate brand & communications. “And since the birth of the Internet, studies have shown that looking for health information has been one of the most popular online activities among adults.”
Whether it’s looking for information about specific illnesses or conditions, exploring treatment options, comparing prescription drug prices, searching for health providers, or following health policy debates, seniors are among the most avid consumers of health information. For seniors who are suffering from illnesses that could incapacitate them, the Internet could have a particularly significant impact. Local pharmacies now offer an online ordering options, where lolos and lolas can log on to their website and order their medicines.
“Through our “Teach Lola” campaign, we aim to open the Internet as an avenue where older Filipinos can have access to information about their illnesses and possible ways on how they can get relief,” added Rojo. “We’ve made the program simple enough for all grandparents to easily grasp the concepts and apply them in no time.”
The campaign targets the younger generation or the apos who can teach their grandparents on how to use the Internet. By logging on to www.teachlola.com to download manuals or get updates on the program. “This is our objective: to encourage the young people to teach their Lolas and Lolos these new technologies, and in the process, rekindle their relationships with their loved ones,” said Rojo. “But now we know that teaching our Lolos and Lolas how to use the Internet may actually help them care for their health.”