American Consumer Institute Study Finds Rising Cable TV Prices Cost Older Consumers Billions

American Consumer Institute Study Finds Rising Cable TV Prices Cost Older Consumers Billions

OASIS Emphasizes Importance of Affordable Telecom Access to Seniors

ST. LOUIS, Oct. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the American Consumer Institute released a study showing that consumers will overpay for cable TV services by $107 billion over five years due to lack of competition. The study found that prices for cable TV services have risen 7.5 percent per year, faster than prescription drugs and medical supplies, and that older consumers are overpaying by $1,156 per household.

Marcia Kerz, president of OASIS, a national nonprofit educational organization designed to enhance the quality of life for mature adults, is dismayed by the impact on older consumers.

"It is essential for seniors to have affordable access to telecommunications services in order to stay connected," said Kerz. "Rising prices in the cable industry are an important issue for older adults, especially those for whom this is a key connection to the outside world."

OASIS offers technology training for 6,400 adults each year, focusing on how seniors can use the Internet to maintain contact with friends and family and find critical information on health and consumer issues. Based on the experience of OASIS participants, the Internet and e-mail are effective tools in fighting the serious problem of isolation in older Americans, especially those who are dealing with disability, transportation or caregiver issues.

"More competition is needed in the telecommunications industry to keep access to telecom services affordable for older consumers," Kerz added. "This study underscores the need for reform of regulatory barriers that inhibit competition."

The OASIS Institute is the headquarters for OASIS, a national education organization that strengthens communities by providing lifelong learning and service opportunities that inspire mature adults to pursue vibrant, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. For more information visit http://www.oasisnet.org/ .

The American Consumer Institute is an independent public policy organization committed to providing information, analysis and public policy research to the public for the betterment of American consumers. For more information or copies of the study visit http://www.theamericanconsumer.org/ .

Source: The OASIS Institute

CONTACT: Janice Branham, Director of Communications, The OASIS Institute, +1-314-862-2933 ext 229, jbranham@oasisnet.org

Web site: http://www.oasisnet.org/ http://www.theamericanconsumer.org/

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