The Converged Blog

Technology usage is growing among older adults, and has certainly had a big impact on senior living operations and its residents.

The outbreak of COVID-19 this year shows just how important it is for seniors to have the ability to stay virtually connected to loved ones. Solutions such as television systems and building-wide managed Wi-Fi can’t be overlooked, as they deliver much needed entertainment and connectivity for residents.

The evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT) has also brought us voice recognition solutions, safety sensors, and smart home technology for security cameras and thermostats. These applications can provide users with more freedom and a higher quality of life, making the senior living environment better for both residents and operators. Additionally, older adults are continuing to adopt more devices like smartphones and smart speakers.

Many healthcare IT leaders are also looking ahead to increasing numbers of Baby Boomers retiring and seeking to prepare to match their expectations for a connected technology experience. 

Based off recent research completed by AARP, we've put together this comprehensive infographic on growing technology trends for adults 50+.

The last few weeks have taken all of us for quite a wild ride. America has been through other pandemics, terrorist attacks, and recent wars, but nothing has completely shifted our way of life like COVID-19 in recent history. The worldwide pandemic has brought our country to a near halt and put immense pressure on our nation’s healthcare system, and our readiness for this situation.

One of the most impacted during the COVID-19 crisis is the Healthcare industry. As the effects spread in the U.S., hospitals nationwide are becoming overwhelmed, with shortages of space, necessary equipment, and supplies. Senior Living communities, on the other hand, are doing as much as possible to limit interaction with the public, as their residents are some of the most vulnerable to the life-threatening virus.

As the manager of a senior living property or skilled nursing facility, you’re focused on doing everything you can to ensure your residents are comfortable in your community. One of the more streamlined ways to accomplish that is to offer your residents television services that mimic the experiences they’ve grown accustomed to in recent years.

As the manager of a property in the Hospitality or Healthcare industry, you’re focused on delivering great experiences to every person who passes through your doors. One of the best ways you can do that is by investing in up-to-date data, video, and voice solutions that give guests access to things they’ve grown accustomed to in recent years—such as Wi-Fi and over-the-top content.

The addition of Wi-Fi services to senior living properties is quickly becoming more of a standard amenity and less of a diamond-in-the-rough offering. Many Healthcare properties offer Wi-Fi to their residents, either to drive competitive advantage or as an opportunity to upsell them on additional services.

Technology has disrupted many industries over the last decade. Amazon, eBay, and many other online retailers have experienced tremendous growth in the use of e-commerce, leading to the reduction of traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Uber and Lyft have dominated market share over the traditional taxi cab industry. Airbnb and VRBO are changing how vacations and reservations are booked, and streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have uprooted the video rental industry.

Truly taking your senior living community to the next level starts with offering a modern digital experience—one that replicates or even exceeds what is available in many of our homes. To deliver on that promise, you need to consider the three critical technologies that make it all possible: a robust data network, quality video services, and a dependable voice system.

If you've ever searched for a managed Wi-Fi, video, or voice provider for a senior living community, you're probably aware that there are many options available to provide these services to residents and staff. Considering that these systems are a significant investment for your property, it's in your best interest to do your due diligence and research the available solutions, as well as find a provider that can customize and support a solution to meet the unique needs of your community and residents, now and in the future.