Innovative Technology

Although there remains a great divide between the older generation and younger Americans adopting technology, that divide is becoming narrower as baby boomers reach retirement age. The baby boomer generation has been accustomed to carrying a smartphone, reading a book on their Kindle, asking Alexa to turn on the lights, and following their grandkids on Facebook. They may not be early adopters, but this generation understands that technology can make their lives easier, which they embrace.

Áegis Living has taken steps to integrate technology into our communities and will continue to evaluate technology that will better aid our residents, families, and staff. Áegis Living is looking toward the future to prepare for the innovations and upgrades that this tech-savvy group of seniors will expect in their new homes.

For our tech-savvy residents, each of our communities offers Wi-Fi internet access throughout the building for their own devices or community tablets. Our tablet devices are available to residents and curated with activities to challenge their minds, entertain, and educate. Each community has tablets loaded with a digital library of Sudoku, trivia, games, brain fitness, audiobooks, classic radio programs, and a variety of apps that our residents love. We also use online programs in our Life Enrichment activities, like leading our residents through meditation or deep breathing exercises.

Technology has transformed how many seniors communicate. Many of our residents are on Facebook or chat with their loved ones via text or online for a face-to-face conversation. Every community has a computer available for our residents to check their emails, peruse current events, print documents, or touch base with their families.

Áegis Living uses voice-activated technology, Amazon’s Alexa, in each of our assisted living and memory care communities. These are used throughout the day during Life Enrichment programming, as well as by staff and residents. The myriad of facts, figures, information, names, current events, and music are never further away than your voice: “Alexa!” Life Enrichment directors know that to keep the attention of this older generation, some with cognitive issues, can be fleeting. No one wants to watch an opportunity go by, especially when you can engage with a resident or remind them of a fond memory. Alexa has seamlessly integrated into our programs, supporting our staff with an immediacy of information, and keeping conversations flowing.

“When we have gaps in our programs, we lose the energy and opportunity,” according to Chris Corrigall, Áegis Living’s Vice President of Life Enrichment. “Alexa is an important vehicle for engagement and sharing ideas allowing our Life Enrichment team to spend more time with our residents.”

For a generation that did not grow up using as much technology as current generations, this voice app makes it easy for them to use. They have adapted to using it very quickly. And we have found it particularly beneficial for those with visual impairments, who don’t need to read to use the device.

Music is also an integral part of our Life Enrichment program at Áegis Living. Music is something that stays with a person well into the aging process and can unlock memories. Having access to music on demand with Alexa can bring a room to life when Big Band music starts swinging or spark a memory on the spot of the first dance at their wedding long ago.

Alexa is quick to tell a joke, play 20 questions, report the weather, guide a class through meditation, or produce facts about the day like famous birthdays, on this day in history, or #1 song on the charts in a particular year. Alexa is an equally helpful resource for both those in assisted living and those in memory care. We find that many in assisted living like to use Alexa for current events, while it makes a great tool to reminisce for our memory care residents.

We use check-in kiosks at the front reception desks to track visitors within the community. Our around-the-clock care staff is supported by technology to better monitor our residents for their safety and health. Motion sensors in the senior apartments help track movement if a resident is up during the night, and medical alerts are worn to keep them safe. Our medication managers track residents’ health and medication information electronically for accuracy and to avoid drug interactions. And as “smart home” technology evolves, we know there will be even more options within each senior apartment in the future.

Our lives are being transformed by technology that not only benefits the younger generation, but these advancements include options for seniors too. Technology continues to evolve and change. As an industry, senior housing needs to include these changes and innovations where necessary, especially when serving a more tech-savvy audience in the future.

At Áegis Living, we are committed to integrating innovative technology for our residents that enhances their quality of life. Come see Áegis Living for yourself. Schedule a tour to learn more.