The Impact of Technology on Transforming Senior Living Care
Technology has significantly advanced in recent decades. It seems to impact every aspect of a person’s life, including seniors. They are adopting and embracing technology as much as younger generations do. Senior living communities recognize this and are introducing technology wherever possible.
Technology and Older Adults
More seniors are using technology to help with daily activities. In 2021, 83% of individuals between 50 and 64 owned a smartphone. 61% of individuals age 65 and older owned a similar device. During that same period, 90% of seniors used a laptop or computer and the internet. This adoption of technology is transforming senior living care today.
Technology in Senior Living Communities
Many seniors today connect with family and friends using technology. During the global pandemic, this was the only way they could engage with loved ones without putting their health at risk. They continue to use these methods today because they are convenient and readily accessible.
In addition, many seniors benefit from telemedicine platforms. They can access necessary healthcare remotely. A senior can have a virtual consultation with their regular doctor or talk with a specialist across the globe. They won’t need to travel to receive necessary medical services.
Remote patient monitoring is another way seniors benefit from technology. Their healthcare providers can monitor their chronic conditions without the need for frequent appointments, and the provider can act quickly when changes are seen in a patient’s condition. Wearable devices and smart home systems are two types of technology that greatly benefit seniors in tracking their health status proactively.
Assistive Technology
Many seniors benefit from voice-activated assistants, a type of assistive technology that allows them to accomplish more in less time. With simple voice commands, they can make a phone call, play music, control a smart device in the home, or set a reminder.
Seniors may also use sensor-based technology for added safety and security. The sensors may detect a fall, monitor their movement patterns, or alert emergency services. Help is never more than a voice command away when they have one of these systems in place.
Technology in Senior Living Communities
Countless people believe this technology is only used when a senior remains in their home. However, it is found in many senior living communities and long-term care settings. This technology may be built into the structure or incorporated throughout a community. From sensory aids to environmental controls, technology supports seniors and promotes their independence and well-being in communities.
Developers are taking a safe step further. They are researching ways to anticipate the needs and preferences of senior living community residents. With this technology, these communities can offer personalized support and assistance. Items currently being developed include cognitive orthotics and navigation technologies.
Implementing technology in senior living communities presents challenges. Three of these are a lack of information, a lack of standards regarding technologies, and a failure of the regulatory process to stay abreast of these advances. Proactive steps must ensure seniors can fully benefit from this technology.
Advances in technology benefit seniors greatly. This technology can improve their quality of life in various ways, particularly by allowing them to maintain independence while boosting their well-being. Barriers exist and must be removed to ensure that every senior can benefit from these advances, whether they reside in their own home or a senior living community. This technology helps create a supportive and empowering environment for seniors while enriching their lives.
