Today’s families seem to be busier than ever, and more and more families are also separated by long distances. While it can be true that certain technology such as cellphones and the Internet can make meaningful conversations obsolete, it is just as true that these devices can be a wonderful means of allowing families to be in frequent touch with another, to share news and pictures, thus bringing everyone closer together.
Recent advances such as Skype even allow us to see one another as we chat. Trouble is, many seniors feel intimidated by some of today’s technology, and even though more and more information will appear exclusively via the Web, too many people have no easy way to learn how to use a computer for their own special needs.
Many lucky seniors are being introduced to the virtual world through an innovative program created by the visionary company Connected Living, and launched here in Connecticut in 15 Benchmark Senior Living communities, including The Village at Mariner’s Point in East Haven.
Last week, I watched a demonstration at Mariner’s Point in the computer lounge where a visiting Connected Living “ambassador” was helping residents send and receive email, share photos and even watch and discuss some old-time favorite television comedians.
The group was not only learning how to connect with their loved ones, but becoming more familiar with one another, an especially helpful way for new residents to become part of the community effortlessly and quickly.
The Connected Living ambassador was doing an outstanding job of determining what each senior hoped to gain by using the computer, and then guiding him or her through the steps to reach their goal. Residents are provided with a customized home page, and the resident decides who they wish to invite into the network. Family and friends receive an email invitation to join, and there is no cost to families or to residents.
Terri Sullivan, Connected Living’s Senior vice president of sales, explained that the company also uses a variety of technologies to help the varied needs of seniors, from screen magnification software to touch screens with large buttons. The system also helps family members feel part of the facility, as they are kept aware of special events, news and announcements that they can then share and discuss with their loved one.
Sullivan impressed me with her enthusiasm, knowledge and understanding of senior issues. She says it is so important that seniors realize how the world opens up once they gain access and knowledge about the Internet.
The company also knew that it needed to provide continuing help, not just put computers out on tables. One 88-year-old resident in an Illinois community became so thrilled when he learned how to scan a photograph and send it to his family, it re-ignited a long-dormant interest in photography.
Founded in 2007 in Quincy, Mass., Connected Living is a modern success story of seeing a need and filling it in an intelligent, caring way. New projects include the introduction (through some government grants) of a program in public housing where it could help residents earn their GED diploma and find jobs, and partnering with local high school students who earn community service credits by working with seniors on technology.
Sarah Hoit, CEO of Connected Living, feels, “Access to technology is social justice. This is the 21st century. It’s not OK to not be connected.”
- Article by Jean Cherni, founder of the retirement advisory service, Senior Living Solutions. Contact her at jeancherni@sbcglobal.net or 15 The Ponds at Hotchkiss Grove, Branford 06405.
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