In past years, retirement communities found it sufficient to provide a single computer lab for their residents. There would often be only a handful of devices for the entire community, and these few access points were not always readily available.
Today, with the rise of technology and its ability to provide social engagement solutions, this model is no longer effective. Residents of these communities are discovering new uses for the internet and have greater motivation to use internet-ready devices, such as computers, televisions and tablets.
Older adults in America today are used to having a personal device with access to the internet, and surrendering this when moving into a new community can be difficult. For facilities that want to retain their residents, providing wireless internet access as well as offering a range of devices for public use is now a priority.
"Seniors have choices," Patti Aspenleiter, president of senior marketing agency Zillner, told Senior Housing News. "Seventy-one percent of seniors go online every day. It's almost as common as using a meal plan. The main competitor of senior living communities is the home. If they can use that e-reader and iPad anywhere in their house and now they can only use that tablet in a computer room — that is a significant disadvantage."
Being connected to the internet allows older adults to stay up to date on current events, keep in contact with family and loved ones and explore exciting new interests. Internet access can also aid in a variety of regular tasks, such as checking bank and retirement accounts or ordering favorite products and having them delivered right to their door.
Since our inception, Independa has campaigned for the use of technology to enhance and improve life for older adults. Independa's award-winning solutions are redefining independence and helping to revolutionize innovative caregiving. With our Caregiver Web Application, family members can monitor their loved ones remotely, and stay in touch no matter their location. Independa's social engagement and remote care solution enables a user to remain socially active and engaged, despite challenges of mobility or distance. Contact us through our online form to schedule a demo.
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