TAMPA, Fla. — For the veterans who served our country, navigating the VA health care system is not always easy, as much of it is done online.
It can be especially difficult for older veterans who may lack access to computers, or struggle to use them.
What You Need To Know
Nearly 50 laptops were given to veterans at a Tampa apartment complex as part of Seniors in Service’s Operation: Veterans Connect
Program Manager Pam Plager said the laptops give veterans the connection many are lacking
In addition to passing out the laptops, classes are being provided on how to use them
Pam Plager, program manager for Seniors in Service’s Operation: Veterans Connect, said her organization provided nearly 50 laptops to veterans living in a Tampa apartment complex through a partnership with the Education Foundation.
“Many of these veterans have come from temporary housing,” she said. “Now, all of a sudden, they have their own apartment. They’re isolated in there alone. This computer gives them access to the outside world to learn things, to get a job, to reach out to family, and it’s just that connection they were lacking.”
Marine Corps veteran Phillip Norton is one of those who received a laptop.
Whether it’s for looking up his benefits or just checking his email, Norton said he’s grateful.
Before getting a computer, he said he and many other veterans resorted to other methods get online.
“I used it mostly on your phone,” he said. “And that gets tedious sometimes — it’s so small. So, this is a great upgrade.”
In addition to the equipment, free classes are available for the veterans to make sure they can access all the resources they may need.
Norton said he feels confident about using his laptop, but believes others may struggle without help.
“Most guys have a problem connecting with the VA, so this gives them another outlet to stay in touch with the VA, check their claims, their appointments, their medications,” he said. “All that’s online.”