Future-Proofing Senior Living: Smart Tech Solutions for a Changing Landscape
Senior living communities are increasingly embracing technology to enhance resident well-being and streamline operations. Though, successful implementation requires a thoughtful approach, prioritizing simplicity and addressing genuine needs. This article explores how organizations are navigating this evolving landscape, drawing insights from industry leaders and showcasing innovative solutions.
From IT Arm to Innovation Hub: The Rise of Thrivewell Tech
Thrivewell Tech, spun out of Asbury Communities’ IT department, exemplifies this shift.It represents a dedicated effort to identify, test, and deploy technologies specifically tailored for senior living. Their focus isn’t just on having the latest gadgets, but on finding solutions that genuinely improve lives.
Real-World Solutions: Making a Tangible Difference
Residents are already benefiting from these efforts. Consider these examples:
* XanderGlasses: These innovative glasses utilize real-time captioning, enabling a resident with hearing loss to reconnect with loved ones in conversation for the first time in years.
* The Lotus Ring: Recently recognized as a Time Magazine Best Invention of 2025, the Lotus ring offers effortless control of devices like TVs and lights – all without the complexity of apps or Wi-Fi setup.
These solutions highlight a crucial point: technology should enhance independence,not hinder it.
The simplicity Imperative: Avoiding Tech Fatigue
Todd Andrews, president of the community living division at Asbury Communities, emphasizes the importance of user-friendliness. He notes a clear pattern: “If it has an app, there’s half the group gone. If it’s tough to operate, there’s another two-thirds of the group gone.”
This underscores a critical truth. you need to prioritize intuitive design and minimize complexity to ensure broad adoption among residents.
Strategic Tech Adoption: Solving Problems, Not Chasing Trends
Senior care organizations aiming to improve resident quality of life and staff efficiency must remain focused on core needs. Don’t simply implement technology for the sake of novelty. Rather,carefully research and select solutions that address specific challenges.
As Curnow advises, “Try to do some research and not just try everything. There are so many products on the market right now, and everything looks new and shiny, and you can get caught up in almost doubling your efforts because you’re trying this one and that one.”
balancing Current & Future Needs: A Generational Shift
Successfully navigating the future requires a delicate balance. You must address the needs of current residents while preparing for the expectations of future generations. Prospective residents will likely be more tech-savvy and demand certain capabilities.
Andrews points out that the senior care industry has historically lagged in technology adoption. “We’ve kicked the can on technology for a long period of time in this industry, and we have to do better.”
Staying Informed: LeadingAge 2025 Coverage
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Be sure to bookmark our coverage of the 2025 LeadingAge Annual Meeting and Expo, taking place Nov. 2-5 in Boston.
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