Senior living facilities are learning that it takes a lot more than a computer lab to satisfy the tech-savvy seniors of today and tomorrow.
Immediately after the advent of the Internet, forward-thinking architects created senior housing communities with computer labs and business centers. Today’s seniors are demanding better facilities and amenities than were offered to their parents and grandparents, who used old-fashioned personal computers if they computed at all. The residents of today and tomorrow use tablets, e-readers and television systems that harness the power of digital technology. These seniors became accustomed to this technology while living in their homes, and they will be looking for the same levels of technology when they search for their next place to live.
Six in 10 people over the age of 65 use the Internet and more than half of all seniors use Facebook, according to the Pew Research Center. In fact, younger, higher-income and more highly educated seniors use the Internet and broadband at rates nearing or exceeding the general population. Nine out of 10 seniors with an annual household income of $75,000 or more go online; 82 percent have broadband at home.
These seniors have become accustomed to using this advanced technology in their homes. Senior living communities that do not offer these technologies will be at a significant disadvantage when trying to attract new residents.
Senior Living Construction and Aging-in-Place Technology
Senior living construction and aging-in-place technology should incorporate three essential technologies – IndependaTVe™, Wi-Fi and an Internet Café.
IndependaTVe™ is one of the top choices for technologies for new and updated senior living communities. This advanced technology allows senior living environments to truly include family and friends, even when those loved ones live far away. IndependaTVe™ expands the very definition of “community” beyond the confines of the brick-and-mortar establishment by offering video chat, photo and message sharing, as well as medication and appointment reminders. Now even when they return to their rooms after a day of wonderful resident activities they will always be connected and never lonely.
Computer labs are not appealing to the growing number of seniors using mobile devices and integrated technologies. These labs often present a classroom-like environment with restricted hours, where residents sit at uncomfortable desks to learn computer skills in solitude.
In stark contrast to a computer lab, the Internet café design encourages social interaction vital to the health and well-being of seniors. Comfortable seating, ample lighting and fast Internet connections encourage healthy interactions, both online and offline. Wi-Fi throughout the entire community enables residents to access the Internet from anywhere within the community, from their bedrooms to the community dining room to the veranda.
IndpendaTVe™, Wi-Fi, Internet cafés and other types of aging-in-place technologies can attract more residents to any senior living facility.
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