Digital ageism contributes to the digital exclusion of elderly individuals. Low incomes and loss of financial autonomy is amongst the main factors for digital exclusion amongst the elderly, especially those institutionalized, nevertheless if economic issues can favor access to technology, without the necessary literacy, digital exclusion continues among older people. This paper presents the portrait of institutionalized elderly in the municipality of Covilhã, in the interior of Portugal, mainly made up of women aged 75 and above. We were able to confirm the importance of digital connection for the well-being of this age group that reported interest and enthusiasm for the use of digital devices and social networking site as they crave connection and to keep in touch with family. Albeit this interest there is a lack of access and support that reinforce stereotypes of incompetence. These findings have potential relevance for public policies addressing the needs of institutionalized elderly people.