Technology has become an integral part of life in many retirement communities
It’s a common myth that older adults dislike, don’t want or just don’t understand technology. But in reality, seniors are using new tech every day to connect with loved ones and make their own lives easier. An AARP survey from this year found that almost eight in 10 older adults say that technology has become an integral part of their day-to-day lives.
Retirement homes in Dayton and elsewhere are offering technological activities and services to enhance the experience of their residents.
“During COVID, the entire senior living industry found many ways to stay engaged with residents and family members through technology,” says Tammy Rasey, the director of sales and marketing at 10 Wilmington Place, a retirement community in southeast Dayton.
Retirement home professionals want to dispel the myth that seniors can’t use new technologies—while also offering resources to help their residents navigate any difficulties they might encounter.
Keeping in Touch
During the pandemic, many seniors got used to keeping in touch with family members through FaceTime, Zoom or other video call technology. Now, families continue to connect virtually, with many retirement homes choosing to offer services that help faraway loved ones feel connected to the lives of their resident.
Bethany Village, a continuing care retirement community in Washington Township, uses the LifeShare mobile app to allow residents and their families to keep track of its busy monthly activity calendar.
Through the app, users can view Bethany Village’s Life Enrichment calendar—with a packed schedule of activities including game nights, movie screenings and group excursions for shopping and cultural events. For residents, having access to the app means they can view an up-to-date event calendar at any time. For family members who might be far away, it’s an extra window into their loved one’s life at Bethany Village.
With a higher volume of video calls comes a need for greater wireless capacity. 10 Wilmington Place recently upgraded its Wi-Fi to high speed in order to enhance user satisfaction and ensure that residents’ needs are being met.
Telehealth
While many retirement communities have in-house health care, some residents will still find themselves using telehealth to connect with specialists. For older adults with mobility issues, virtual doctors’ meetings can be a huge boon—and they also minimize exposure to disease.
Offering Guidance
Many older adults do find it difficult to learn and navigate new technology, sometimes finding it frustrating that devices don’t seem to be designed with them in mind. But many retirement communities have employees on hand who are available to guide and assist residents who encounter difficulties.
“We offer technology classes on a regular basis,” Rasey says.
10 Wilmington Place has also brought on a resident concierge, who can assist residents with any technology issues that may arise.
Retirement Profiles
10 Wilmington Place
10 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, OH 45420
937-253-1010
10wilmingtonplace.com
Discover the essence of exceptional retirement living at 10 Wilmington Place, where we’ve proudly celebrated over 35 years of serving our residents. Family owned with a strong focus on family values, we provide high-quality care and services that enhance your independence and quality of life. Experience a vibrant community where your needs are met, your independence is celebrated and cherished memories are made. Uncover the joy of unique senior living at its finest.
Dogwood Commons, A Treplus Community
4500 Dogwood Circle East, Dayton, Ohio 45440
937-907-0010
trepluscommunities.com
Treplus Communities is redefining 55-plus living for active adults at Dogwood Commons in Centerville, Ohio. This age-restricted community is uniquely designed to offer beautiful, single-story, one and two-bedroom apartment homes with attached garages and designer finishes. Enjoy maintenance-free living, premium amenities including a community garden and fitness center along with a full calender events for a socially engaging resident experience.
Kettering Health Senior Living
317 Sycamore Glen Drive, Miamisburg Ohio 45342
937-866-2984
ketteringhealth.org/services/seniors/senior-living/
At Kettering Health Senior Living, we offer a range of spaces designed just for you. Between our multiple assisted-living and independent-living housing types and floor plans, you can find living arrangements that are perfectly suited for yourself or a loved one. Within our faith-based community, there are plenty of opportunities to continue doing the things that you love. Please call 937-866-2984 for more information.
St. Leonard
8100 Clyo Road, Centerville, OH 45458
937-439-7152
chilivingcommunities.org/locations/ohio/st-leonard
St. Leonard is a continuing care retirement community where comfort and convenience meet on our beautiful 240-acre campus. Our special combination of housing choices, personalized support services, vital active programming and events, and quality health care goes beyond the traditional—it’s a new way of thinking that places your needs first. As a resident of St. Leonard, convenience, value, security and community are yours.
The Ashford of Beavercreek
3865 Park Overlook Drive, Beavercreek, OH 45431
937-821-5356
theashford.com/beavercreek
The Ashford of Beavercreek introduces a remarkable retirement community opening this fall. Immerse yourself in the comfort of our brand-new community, featuring bright and spacious independent apartments, along with exceptional assisted living and memory care options. Experience resident-focused care, daily dining and a diverse range of life-enriching activities, all included for one price. Schedule your tour today and envision how you or your loved one can truly thrive in our warm and inviting community.
