WiFi is not a luxury but a necessity now, especially for our elderly loved ones in senior living communities. This amenity is needed to stay connected and build strong, fast, and easy communication. In this blog, we have detailed why and exactly how WiFi solutions are a are a major requirement for assisted living.
WiFi for Senior Residents Living In a Community
Approximately 5 years ago, in the US – the total number of senior living properties was around 15,000; at the same time, WiFi was not a standard part of the pack then, but it is quickly becoming a crucial amenity for these communities. So, what has made WiFi such a big game-changer for seniors?
Well, before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, only about 14% of senior citizens aged 65 and above used the internet. Fast forward to this day, and that number has shockingly increased to a whopping 59%. The pandemic left many nursing home residents isolated from their families, but WiFi changed that.
With the help of a WiFi network, seniors can quickly connect with their beloved in multiple interactive ways, such as using social media applications to share memories and stories in the form of pictures or videos. It’s like having a virtual family reunion whenever they want.
An Aid to Active Engagement
WiFi is not limited to connectivity with family; it is also a great tool to keep senior residents engaged and updated with the world. They can keep up with current events, explore new hobbies, and delve into healthy discussions on the topics that interest them.
We understand that there may be times when in-hand gadgets might not be feasible. For those, hands-free interaction devices such as Google Home or Amazon Alexa are the best options to choose from, offering assistance with alarms, games, and more – all of which require a stable internet connection.
Enhancing Medical Care
Another added advantage of networking in senior care setup is health and its integration with WiFi for enhanced medical assistance. You must have read or heard of telemedicine booming in recent years, and the pandemic pushed it even further.
A stable WiFi connection easily maintains the relationship between nursing home residents and their healthcare professionals. It offers:
- Earlier detection of clinical issues
- Better health outcomes
- Fast on-site treatment
- Lesser hospital admissions
- Cost saving
- Reduced disease exposure
The senior citizens of today are extremely tech-savvy. According to a survey in 2019, more than half of the population of those aged 65 or older have owned and used smartphones in their lives. This shows that WiFi is no longer just a perk but an expected standard in senior living communities.
Why is WiFi Important for The Nursing Home Staff?
WiFi’s advantages are not limited to the residents; it is also critical for staff. It helps them to provide better care and support.
With the help of internet connectivity, devices for telehealth and telemedicine, such as location trackers and pressure sensors, function more effectively.
Other than that, WiFi connections make senior living safe for everyone. Types of equipment such as lighting, motion, smart thermostats, and door/window sensors provide residents with a comfortable and secure environment.
Closing Note
Want to learn more about WiFi connectivity and its advantages for assisted living? Schedule an appointment to chat with one of the experts from Exordium Networks at (972) 573-1180. We are just a call away from providing top-notch IT services to cater to your needs.