Table of Contents
- Loneliness and Isolation Are Major Health Concerns for Seniors
- 1. Family communication portals
- 2. Virtual clubs and events
- 3. Remote wellness programs
- 4. Augmented reality experiences
- 5. Technology-equipped community spaces
- We Are Your Trusted Technology Partner for Senior Living Solutions
Connected technology for senior living offers ways to combat loneliness and isolation.
Loneliness and Isolation Are Major Health Concerns for Seniors
As the median age of the US population continues to rise, it’s essential to consider the well-being of seniors. In particular, loneliness and social isolation are concerns, with research showing that nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated. Loneliness and isolation have been linked to many physical and mental conditions, including anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cognitive decline.
Many events can contribute to these issues, including retirement, living away from family, and the deaths of friends. Older adults who live alone may be more subject to social isolation. However, even those in senior living communities are also susceptible to loneliness.
Connected technology for senior living offers possibilities for addressing some of these issues. Such technology can help keep seniors connected with family, friends, those around them, and the world at large. They provide options for continued engagement with the world to lessen the feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Here are five ways to use connected technology for senior living to combat loneliness and isolation.
1. Family communication portals
Not all seniors can live near family and friends for frequent visits. Connected portals can help seniors connect with loved ones through video chats, messaging, sharing photos, and more.
Such portals don’t necessarily require seniors to learn to use unfamiliar interfaces. For example, with Caavo, any TV can become a secure, reliable two-way communication platform. This can improve safety and strengthen family bonds by increasing the potential for positive interactions even when families can’t gather in person.
2. Virtual clubs and events
Virtual clubs and events also offer ways to keep seniors connected with the world beyond their door. From the comfort of their own homes, seniors can participate in movie nights, book clubs, cooking classes, and more. Such events can connect individuals with shared interests that can become the foundation for relationships. The virtual format enables participation regardless of whether someone is fully mobile; all they need is an Internet connection and a phone, tablet, or TV. Thus, even those who lack transportation or are bedridden can still make connections with others.
3. Remote wellness programs
Similarly, wellness classes offered remotely present a wide variety of ways seniors can stay active, healthy, and connected even if they can’t leave their homes. Health education workshops, meditation sessions, and virtual exercise classes are some of the many ways seniors can share experiences with others without being in the same room together.
4. Augmented reality experiences
As people age, health concerns and other issues may affect their ability to travel. This can limit their ability to experience much the world offers. However, the rise of augmented reality (AR) technology enables seniors to participate in immersive social experiences. Virtual visits with others to museums, landmarks, and cultural sites can foster a sense of connection and shared experiences despite physical distance.
5. Technology-equipped community spaces
Even for seniors living in communities, finding ways to connect with neighbors and not feel lonely can be challenging. Providing connected technology in community spaces can help with this. Such technology offers options for seniors who can’t individually afford to install solutions in their own homes. Tech-equipped spaces, including digital kiosks, tablets, and interactive displays, can help residents access information, participate in virtual activities, and connect with those around them.
Another option in community spaces is to offer programs led by tech-savvy volunteers who can help seniors learn how to use newer technologies. These volunteers can help seniors access resources and connect to others via virtual clubs and events, social media, and AR experiences. This can create a sense of empowerment and engagement to combat social isolation and loneliness.
We Are Your Trusted Technology Partner for Senior Living Solutions
WorldVue is a top-tier, full-service company providing connected technology for senior living. We offer options to improve your connectivity to support innovative solutions. WorldVue provides a team of technology engineers, systems designers, and project managers dedicated to serving your property with ONE point of contact for installation, service, and support nationwide. We can help bring your property into the future with connected services that will improve residents’ lives.