Assisted living communities are designed to help seniors continue doing the things they love while benefiting from necessary support services. Many of these communities are using the latest advancements in technology to help enhance residents’ health, safety, and overall well-being. But the benefits don’t end there; these technological enhancements can also have numerous important benefits for caregivers.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what technology is used in assisted living communities to help improve residents’ lives.
How Technology Is Used in Assisted Living Communities
Like many other aspects of life, assisted living communities are benefiting greatly from the latest technological advancements on the market. When thoughtfully used, these systems can significantly improve residents’ lives and help caregivers streamline support services.
In a recent study, close to 90% of older adults over the age of 65 reported being regular internet users, showing that many seniors are also discovering the benefits of technology. Older adults use digital tools in their daily lives to stay connected with friends and loved ones, keep up with their hobbies and interests, and more.
The Benefits of Assisted Living Communities Using Technology
The benefits of using technology are immense for residents and caregivers alike. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable advantages of assisted living technologies:
- Learning Opportunities: Lifelong learners can take advantage of technology to access online courses, senior-friendly literacy programs, and books across a wide range of topics.
- Enhanced Safety and Security: If you’re thinking about assisted living for yourself or a loved one, safety is likely a top concern. In addition to 24/7 caregiver access, many assisted living communities feature sensors, trackers, emergency response systems, and fall detection systems to help keep residents safe. These tools provide an additional layer of safety, ensuring caregivers can quickly step in when needed.
- Social Interaction: Connecting with others is especially beneficial for seniors. With tools like social media, video-calling apps, and online forums at their disposal, seniors have more ways to catch up with family and friends, even when they live far away.
- Streamlined Support: Technology can also help streamline support services. Many assisted living communities use advanced systems, such as caregiver scheduling apps and electronic health records, to help ensure each resident receives the support they need in a timely manner. This means caregivers can spend more time providing assistance instead of focusing on paperwork or administrative tasks.
- Convenience: Seniors with computer or smartphone access can schedule doctor’s appointments or have groceries delivered right to their doorstep at the tap of a button. This added convenience can help enhance the quality of life for older adults.
- Entertainment: With more free time on their hands, it’s important for seniors to stay engaged with meaningful activities. Thanks to technology, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. You’ll find plenty of podcasts, music, movies, and more to keep you entertained.
9 Pieces of Technology Assisted Living Communities Use
Many assisted living communities are using a wide range of tools to promote the safety and well-being of residents, including:
1. Health Monitoring Software
Timely assistance can make all the difference for residents with medical needs. Health tracking systems, like smartwatches and blood glucose monitors, can help caregivers monitor a resident’s vital signs and quickly intervene when needed.
2. Electronic Health Records (EHR)
Electronic health records allow caregivers to quickly access accurate, up-to-date information, including prescriptions, allergies, and medical conditions.
3. Scheduling Apps
Residents in assisted living communities invariably have different needs. Digital scheduling tools help caregivers schedule and manage support tasks more effectively. These apps can help caregivers organize shifts, share real-time updates, and coordinate other caregiver responsibilities.
4. Smart Home Technology
Many assisted living apartments are fitted with interconnected smart devices, similar to modern homes. These usually include voice-activated assistants, smart smoke detectors, automated climate and light control, and more to help create a more beneficial environment for residents.
5. Emergency Alert Systems
Emergency alert systems, like wearable alarms, motion sensors, and in-room emergency buttons, allow caregivers to respond quickly during emergencies like falls, medical crises, or other urgent situations.
6. Wandering Management Solutions
Wandering management solutions utilize a combination of sensors and trackers to monitor residents who may be more prone to wandering, such as individuals with memory challenges. These systems help notify caregivers if a resident leaves a safe area, allowing for timely intervention.
7. Resident-Caregiver Communication Systems
Many assisted living communities incorporate advanced communication tools like two-way voice systems, wearable emergency buttons, and video call options to help residents stay connected with the care team.
8. Medication Management Tools
Many seniors have trouble keeping up with their medication, which can pose several health and safety risks. In addition to caregiver support, tools like automatic pill dispensers, smart pill bottles, and medication reminder apps can help ensure residents take the right dose at the right time.
9. Tech-Assisted Mobility Aids
Assistive devices like smart wheelchairs, powered walkers, and prosthetic limbs can help individuals with balance issues or mobility challenges move around safely and comfortably.
5 Consumer Technologies for Seniors in Assisted Living
While seniors are generally less tech-savvy than the younger population, older adults are more digitally connected than ever.
Here are some ways they’re leveraging assisted living technology to improve their daily lives:
1. Video Calling Systems
Video-calling apps are a great way for seniors to connect with friends and family. While video calls can’t substitute in-person visits, they provide a convenient way for residents to maintain strong connections with friends and loved ones.
2. Fall Detection Devices
Fall detection devices notify caregivers in case of a fall, which can be especially useful for individuals at risk of falling, like people with mobility or balance issues. When the device detects sudden changes in movement, it automatically calls for help by sending an alert to caregivers or emergency responders.
3. Virtual Reality (VR)
Thanks to VR technology, seniors can engage in virtual travel, social interaction, and sensory activities that may otherwise not be available to them.
4. Wearable Health Devices
Wearable devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers are becoming increasingly popular with seniors. These health companions help monitor vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and sleep quality, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
5. Brain-Healthy Games
In addition to entertainment, playing games can help preserve brain functions like memory and problem-solving skills, which tend to decline with age. There are many fun options, including card games, puzzles, trivia quizzes, and video games that can be enjoyed on a phone or tablet.
Future Trends in Assisted Living Technology
Today, technology is shaping many aspects of our lives. We’re constantly seeing new innovations in health care, communication, and safety — and assisted living is no exception.
Here are some exciting technological developments that could certainly further improve assisted living in the future:
- Telehealth and remote health monitoring for seniors who can’t attend in-person visits.
- Robotic assistance to help manage caregiver workload.
- Artificial intelligence to predict possible health risks.
- Technological advancements in biotechnology could lead to personalized treatments based on an individual’s genetic profile.
How StoryPoint Group Uses Technology in Its Communities
At StoryPoint Group communities, we use technology to help enrich the daily lives of our residents and caregivers by helping them stay connected and lead a healthier lifestyle in a safe and supportive environment.
While all of these technological advances are impressive and will undoubtedly help shape future assisted living communities, patience, compassion, and real human connection are what make a real difference in a senior’s life — and we’ll always keep that in mind.
Let StoryPoint Group Be Your Guide
We understand the unique challenges you face when supporting a loved one — and we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. If someone you love would benefit from assisted living or another senior living service, we would love to join them on their unique journey.
To learn more about StoryPoint Group communities, contact us or give us a call today at 1-844-275-9990. We look forward to getting to know you!
