The use of technology among seniors has increased significantly in recent years. With the rise of smart devices, streaming services, and social media, seniors are no longer disconnected from the digital world. On average, seniors are bringing 7 to 10 internet connected devices with them when they move into a senior living community. This is one of many necessities that drive a community’s position as a destination for resident experience and safety. This is why having a reliable internet connection in senior living communities has become more than a luxury.
The importance of internet connectivity goes beyond just keeping seniors connected with their loved ones. In senior living communities, internet connectivity is crucial for various systems and services that are essential for the safety and well-being of residents. Let’s take a look at what makes a robust internet connection indispensable in these communities.
Nurse call systems: Faster response times
Nurse call systems are essential for senior living communities, as they allow residents to quickly request assistance. These systems include devices such as pull cords, pendants, or call buttons that residents can use to alert staff when they need help.
Advancements in healthcare technology, such as wireless communication, have made nurse call systems more efficient and reliable. With internet connectivity, staff can receive calls and alerts instantly, reducing response times and potentially saving lives in emergency situations.
Medical systems: Remote monitoring and telehealth
Many seniors today use medical devices such as smartwatches, blood pressure monitors, and glucose meters to track their health. These devices can transmit data over the internet to healthcare providers for remote monitoring. By having reliable internet access in senior living communities, residents can receive timely care and avoid unnecessary hospital visits.
Moreover, telehealth services, which use the internet to connect seniors with healthcare professionals remotely, have become increasingly popular. Thanks to telehealth, seniors can access medical services without leaving their community, reducing the risk of exposure to diseases and making healthcare more accessible and convenient.
Security systems: Keeping residents safe
Senior living communities must have robust security measures in place to ensure the safety of their residents. These measures often include CCTV cameras, electronic access control, and alarm systems, which rely on internet connectivity for remote monitoring and management. Having a reliable internet connection ensures that these systems are continuously functioning and providing the necessary protection for residents.
Streaming services: Enriching the senior living experience
Streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube have become a source of entertainment for people of all ages, including seniors. These platforms offer a plethora of engaging content that can enhance the living experience for seniors. With internet connectivity, residents can access these services on their smart devices or even on community-provided TVs. This not only provides entertainment but also helps minimize feelings of isolation and loneliness that seniors might experience.
Social media: Fostering connection and community engagement
Browsing social media platforms has become a daily activity for many seniors. It lets them stay connected with family and friends, as well as engage with their community and the world around them. Seniors can effortlessly connect to these platforms and participate in online discussions, events, and groups as long as they have reliable internet access.
Why a redundant internet connection is crucial
Whether it’s for nurse call systems, security systems, or streaming services, having an internet connection that is always up and running is essential in senior living communities. In case of a network outage, having a backup connection can ensure that critical systems and services are still functioning, providing peace of mind for both residents and staff. Having a redundant internet connection is a vital contingency plan that can prevent costly disruptions and ensure the safety and well-being of seniors.
While some may think that implementing and maintaining reliable internet connectivity in senior living communities is expensive, it often ends up being the same or even less than what a community would spend on traditional telecommunication bills. Not to mention, the benefits of having a connected community far outweigh any costs associated with it.
Omnia Senior Solutions understands the importance of internet connectivity in senior living communities. We specialize in providing specialized IT solutions for senior living communities, including reliable and cost-effective internet connectivity options. Our team is dedicated to helping communities stay connected and improve the quality of life for their residents through technology. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you in creating a thriving community for your seniors.