December 9, 2021 by Natalie Cochran
3G Network Shutdowns: Preparing Older Adults and Low-income Individuals
While 4 and 5G networks are available, many older adults and low-income individuals use older cell phones, life alerts or other devices that still use 3G networks. 3G Wireless Networks are scheduled to shut down in 2022, which will prevent 3G cell phone users from placing and receiving calls, and cutting off their access to data. Each mobile carrier plans to shut down 3G networks at different times, AT&T as early as February.
Staying connected is especially important for older adults who access health services, courts, and other service providers remotely. If someone you know has an older phone or device that uses a 3G network, this is how you can advocate to prepare these people for the shutdown:
- Some people may not be aware of the upcoming change, so now is the time to share this information with your community;
- Help your friends or family identify potential devices that may be affected (ex. iPhones older than the 6 will no longer work for calls and data. Medical alert devices, watches, and home security systems that use 3G will be affected); and
- Connect them with new devices. For people with limited resources, ask your carrier for an alternative. Some carriers are currently offering discounted devices or replacement phones.
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If you or a loved one need legal assistance, you can apply for free legal services by visiting www.lonestarlegal.org or calling 1-800-733-8394.
Lone Star Legal Aid is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit law firm focused on advocacy for low-income and underserved populations. Lone Star Legal Aid serves the millions of people at 125% of federal poverty guidelines that reside in 72 counties in the eastern and Gulf Coast regions of Texas, and 4 counties of southwest Arkansas. Lone Star Legal Aid focuses its resources on maintaining, enhancing, and protecting income and economic stability; preserving housing; improving outcomes for children; establishing and sustaining family safety and stability, health and well‐being; and assisting populations with special vulnerabilities, like those with disabilities, or who are elderly, homeless, or have limited English language skills. To learn more about Lone Star Legal Aid, visit our website at www.lonestarlegal.org.
Media contact: media@lonestarlegal.org
