The future of senior living is already here.
How many of your residents use social media or stream their favorite movies?
Advancements in technology make it easier than ever for seniors to stay connected and engaged with the world around them. It's more than just convenience; technology impacts aging adults' quality of life. Here are five ways seniors are benefitting:
1. Smartphones are a key to combatting loneliness
It's no secret that technology has revolutionized how we live, work, and play, but it also has profoundly impacted how we stay connected with loved ones, regardless of distance. This has been an especially welcome development for seniors who often experience social isolation.
Staying in touch is easy and accessible
In the past, staying in touch with friends and family often meant relying on phone calls and handwritten letters. Thanks to technological advances, seniors can enjoy a variety of communication options, from video chatting to instant messaging and photo streams.
Smartphone usage has increased significantly in the past few years, and some platforms are designed specifically for seniors with large buttons and simple interfaces that make them easy to use. As a result, seniors are more connected than ever before, and technology allows them to develop and maintain meaningful relationships with their families, friends, and other residents.
2. Apps and online services provide quick access to care and support
Seniors are turning to technology to help them stay connected and receive the care they need. There are many apps and online services that provide help with things like groceries, transportation, and even healthcare. As a result, seniors can experience a higher quality of life.
MyCommunities is a platform designed specifically for senior living communities—in addition to giving residents an easy-to-use mobile app with a variety of tools to keep them engaged in their communities, staff has access to a sophisticated back-end platform that allows them to customize the user experience and access valuable reporting and analytics.
3. News, events, and social media access keep seniors informed and connected
Seniors used to rely on flyers, paper calendars, or word of mouth to find out what was happening in their community. But now, thanks to technology, they can easily find out what's happening from their computer or smartphone.
Several websites and apps are designed specifically for seniors, offering a wealth of information about local events, services, and news.
Technology is also making it easier for seniors to stay connected with online and in-person social groups. With just a few clicks, they can use their community app to join a book club, start a group chat, play live trivia, or get updates about upcoming events in their senior living communities.
4. Online clubs and forums encourage aging adults to stay physically and mentally active
Staying active and engaged is essential for our overall health and well-being. However, staying physically and mentally active can become more challenging as we age.
Fortunately, technology is making it easier for seniors to stay active. For example, senior wellness programs now offer a wide range of activities, from Tai Chi to computer classes, and staff can host their own activities with MyCommunities across the entire portfolio. In addition, many social media platforms and online discussion forums provide opportunities for seniors to connect with others and share their interests.
With all of these new resources available, it's easier than ever for seniors to maintain an active lifestyle. As a result, they can enjoy all the benefits of being physically and mentally engaged in life.
5. Wearable technology and IoT increase independence and quality of care
As we age, keeping track of our health becomes more important. Unfortunately, this can be difficult without help. From apps that provide helpful reminders to devices that automatically call for help, technology makes it possible for seniors to live independently for longer. MyCommunities can help you track health metrics for your residents and even help them compete in fitness challenges.
Tracking medication and getting help
There are now apps that can make it easier for older adults to stay on top of their health, such as tracking medication schedules and sending reminders when it's time to take their pills, as well as apps that can track vital signs and send an alert to both the wearer and staff.
Wearable devices and sensors can automatically call for help if an aging adult falls or has a medical emergency. Fall belts can even protect seniors from injuries like a broken hip in the event of a fall. In senior living communities, proximity sensors and resident monitoring IoT devices help to guarantee quality care.
Providing better quality of care
Several IoT devices can simplify day-to-day living for residents. Smart thermostats can be programmed to schedule temperature changes in a resident's home during certain times of the day, such as increasing the A/C at night, and can be controlled remotely by staff. Smart locks can also be programmed remotely, so if a resident loses their key, it's a quick and easy fix for staff. Smart lighting can also help residents by automatically turning lights on and off, helping to prevent falls in the dark.
Technology makes it easier for seniors to stay connected with friends and family, receive care and support when needed, access information about their local community, stay active and engaged, and track their health and medication schedules. For community staff and portfolio managers, technology makes it easier to provide a better quality of care for residents with fewer resources, which increases resident satisfaction, staff retention, and revenue. The benefits of technology will continue to grow, and an experienced technology partner can help keep your communities ahead of the curve.
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