Did you know that more than one in three older adults reported feeling isolated between 2022 and 2023? Family members often lived further away and weren't easily accessible. They may struggle to access things like social media or not know how to make video calls.
When seniors move into a retirement community, they gain access to all kinds of technology that can improve their quality of life. This not only includes tablets but also things like smart home devices and more.
Here's why technology and the internet in senior living is so important, and how to ensure your loved one has that kind of access.
You may wonder why advanced tech solutions for the elderly are even a necessity. After all, most seniors don't care about technology that you may find interesting. They could also struggle to adapt and use it themselves.
The main reason to invest in elderly care technology is because of how much it can improve their lives.
For example, something like a video calling app can serve multiple purposes. It's useful for connecting with family members across great distances, which is especially handy if they live abroad. A resident can also set up video calls with physicians that would otherwise be difficult for them to visit.
The internet facilitates these communications. It also allows for networking via social media, email, and online community boards. If a resident has a question regarding something they've purchased, they can find a video online detailing how to use it.
When browsing for senior living amenities, there are a few features to keep an eye out for. Among them are health monitoring devices, telemedicine equipment, smart home technology, mobility aids, and cognitive support tools.
At the very least, these allow for better communication within and outside the community. Some of this technology is also essential for maintaining a resident's health and safety.
Health monitoring devices are arguably some of the most important pieces of technology for elderly care. They help to keep track of an individual's vital signs, such as their blood pressure, glucose levels, and heart rate.
These devices can take the form of wearable fitness trackers, smartwatches, and medical alert systems. Real-time data is constantly recorded and provided for caregivers and relevant medical professionals.
Health monitoring is especially important for personal care, where residents need more direct and constant assistance. However, every person can make use of a fitness tracker.
Video calling is essential for residents who want to stay in touch with their friends and family who may live in another city or state. However, it is also important for connecting with medical professionals without the need to travel.
Telemedicine allows seniors with mobility limitations to receive medical advice and prescriptions from home. These visits can take the form of video calls, online consultations, and access to digital records. There are even doctors who can prescribe medications based on photos.
Your senior living community will often offer these services using their own devices. They may also help you set up telemedicine using a resident's own tablet or smartphone.
One of the most convenient options for seniors is smart home technology. These devices not only make home life much more convenient but they can also improve the safety of your residents.
Some of the most common forms of smart technology include thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras. You can also find smart clocks, outlets, and virtual assistant technology.
With the use of smart technology, residents can set alarms or reminders for themselves. They can have certain electronic devices turned on and off according to a schedule.
When most people think of mobility aids, they picture walkers and canes. However, mobility aid technology also includes devices such as electric wheelchairs, stairlifts, and motorized walkers.
Electric wheelchairs are primarily for those who have medical conditions or difficulty walking. They may even struggle to turn the wheels on a manual wheelchair.
Stairlifts are useful for homes with multiple floors. They allow residents to ascend without the need to struggle on stairs.
Smart walkers come with control systems that improve their use and the safety of residents.
Cognitive support tools are designed to help hold back the cognitive decline of residents. This is a common issue for the elderly, as they aren't normally encouraged to continue learning or challenging their minds.
Brain training apps, digital games, and memory aids all support cognitive health. Many of these are accessible from either computers or smartphones.
Virtual reality (VR) is one type of cognitive therapy that has gained popularity in recent years. It can evoke positive emotions and memories by immersing a person in a realistic environment.
A modern senior living community should come with a variety of features that improve their quality of life. This can include medication management systems, health services, transportation, and much more.
When it comes to technology, always make sure that your senior loved one will gain access to some kind of emergency alert system. You never know when they'll have a tumble in the bathroom and need medical intervention.
Environmental control systems allow residents to manage their living environment with ease. This may mean controlling lighting and temperature with a couple of voice commands or with an accessible interface.
Even interactive entertainment systems can make senior living a pleasure. Many remote controls and streaming services these days have voice recognition built-in.
It's easy to overlook technology and the internet in senior living communities. However, their integration is key to providing a well-rounded and safe environment for your loved one. They also show that the people who run the community care about their residents.
Addington Place of Fairfield offers first-class senior living tailored to promote each resident's well-being. Our senior living options include assisted living, memory care, and respite care. Reach out today to learn more and set up a visit.