The divide between us: Internet access among people with and without disabilities in the post-pandemic era

TL;DR

This study compares internet access and usage patterns between disabled and non-disabled adults in New Zealand post-pandemic, revealing persistent disparities and concerns among disabled users.

Contribution

It provides one of the first detailed comparisons of internet access types, usage frequency, and online risk perceptions between these groups in the post-pandemic context.

Findings

People with disabilities have less fibre access and more wireless broadband use.

Disabled users engage less with social media platforms.

They express greater concern about online risks.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of internet access across various aspects of life, from remote work and online education to healthcare services and social connections. As we transition to a post-pandemic era, a pressing need arises to update our understanding of the multifaceted nature of internet access. This study is one of the first attempts to do so. Using survey data from New Zealand adult internet users (n=960), it compares internet connection types, frequency of internet use at home, social media use, and concerns about online risk between people with and without disabilities. Results show people with disabilities have restricted fibre access and higher wireless broadband (a much slower connection type). People with disabilities use social media platforms less and are more concerned about certain online risks. The findings highlight persistent disparities in internet access for people with disabilities in the post-pandemic era. Implications of the study are discussed.