Do you envy tech-savvy seniors? You're not alone if you have concerns about using the internet or digital tools.
It's understandable why some older adults have a hard time embracing technology. For one thing, they didn't grow up with the internet. There are also privacy and security concerns, especially with news about internet scams.
Now, if you're considering independent living in Lee's Summit, you may need to get used to technology and the internet in senior living communities. Read on to learn how different tech serving the senior living market can enhance your quality of life.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society looked at regular internet usage among seniors. The researchers discovered that this positively impacts cognitive functioning and memory skills. Simply put, older people who are internet users have about half the risk of dementia.
Seniors who use social media to connect with loved ones are also less likely to feel social isolation. Note that in older adults, social isolation may increase the risk of premature death, comparable to the dangers of smoking and obesity.
Beyond the internet, seniors also benefit from using digital health tools. These include fitness watches and other wearables. Of course, they can also use gadgets for entertainment and to discover or develop new habits through apps like YouTube, Audible, etc.
Lastly, technology allows older adults with mobility or vision issues to be more independent. For example, they can have groceries delivered to their home through an online shopping app. They can also use voice-activated technologies to control the lights, turn on music, etc., to make smart home features work for them.
Smart home upgrades allow residents of senior living communities to connect to their living spaces via the internet. These cover appliances and technologies such as smart light bulbs, smart locks, smart thermostats, and so on. With smart features, seniors can stay in their homes safely, even if they have mobility challenges and other health issues.
That said, choosing the right senior living community in Lee's Summit, MO, is crucial. They must understand the importance of senior community connectivity. Smart home upgrades would be useless if residents are encountering connectivity issues.
Besides providing stable internet, senior apartments or retirement communities should help educate residents. Sample topics may include remote access, voice-activated devices, Bluetooth connection, etc.
Like smart home appliances, assistive technologies help older adults be more independent and safe. They also help improve the overall well-being of seniors.
Robots are one example of assistive technology. These machines can be autonomous or designed to assist seniors with tasks. For instance, care robots, which come in various shapes and sizes, can help lift older people and even assist with exercise, toileting, and so on.
There are also social or companion robots. These machines provide social interaction and emotional support for older adults.
Assisted living communities in Lee's Summit, MO, could benefit from incorporating these robotic companions. Plus, these social companions can help reduce the workload of their care staff.
Electronic health records (EHRs) in senior living communities are a must. For one thing, EHR systems help manage residents' health information. They do this by reducing paperwork and easing communication with healthcare professionals.
Also, most EHR solutions already have automated scheduling and tracking systems. That means residents and their loved ones can worry less about missed or delayed care.
Note that you can use this criterion to evaluate senior apartments or retirement communities. Their EHR solution should be user-friendly so that the care staff can access records in seconds. It must also comply with HIPAA regulations.
Health monitoring tools can make EHR systems in senior living communities more robust. Wearables can help track a resident's heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
They can also monitor sleep patterns and physical activity. This allows staff to detect potential health issues early. With prompt intervention, complications can be avoided, as well as frequent hospital visits.
Health monitoring tools can also assist with medication management. Residents with memory loss or cognitive disorders can get reminders to take their medications on time. Some gadgets also have fall detection sensors and emergency response features.
Tech solutions allow older adults in senior communities to communicate with their peers and family members. Most communication devices and apps are simple, even for those with mobility issues, hearing loss, or vision problems.
Examples include video calling apps, which don't require special equipment. Most smartphones, laptops, and other internet-enabled devices can load video calling platforms. Best of all, they're easy to pair with Bluetooth hearing aids and portable microphones.
Seniors also have the option to use speech-to-text using their tablets or smartphones. They can use this feature to text, email, post messages online, and make notes.
Senior living communities can help residents be more technologically proficient. Understand that even with touchscreen devices, navigation can be challenging. This can be solved by carefully selecting easier-to-control gadgets (e.g., those with special controllers or mice).
Executives can also conduct hands-on training and workshops for their residents. Make the sessions an opportunity for social interaction and community building. You can do this by allowing tech-savvy residents to guide others.
Staff and volunteers could also offer individualized support. One-on-one training can help residents adjust to using gadgets and make them more comfortable with technology.
Integrating technology and the internet in senior living communities should be standard practice. After all, the benefits are clear and far outweigh the challenges.
If you're looking for a senior community that can help you be more tech-adept, consider Addington Place of Lee's Summit. There's a reason why our residents are always motivated to learn. That's because they thrive in a supportive, caring environment and a warm community atmosphere.
Contact us to learn more about our senior living options, services, and amenities.