Technology is “quality of life infrastructure” for older adults, according to a new study commissioned by Volunteers of America (VOA).
When it is thoughtfully designed and deployed, it can play a valuable role in helping seniors stay healthy and independent, reveals the research.
“We know that technology alone does not solve the concerns of older folks living independently,” said Stephen Samuels, VOA’s vice president of innovation and impact investing. “We must always work as partners with residents, gain their trust, and create technology that meets their needs while fitting seamlessly into their daily lives. We can’t assume what they need.”
The research findings are outlined in “Residents First: Technology for Connection and Healthy Living in Affordable Senior Housing,” which was authored by the Institute for Public Health Innovation and made possible with support from the Humana Foundation.
The study comes as the senior population grows and social isolation becomes an increasing concern.
Insights from the Residents First research are already shaping VOA’s commitment to develop best-in-class affordable senior housing as part of the growing Buzzard Point redevelopment in southwest Washington, D.C. Community participants in the research were selected to reflect the demographics of potential residents—older adults living in affordable housing in the surrounding neighborhoods.
“While this research was conducted with residents in Washington, D.C., the findings provide a national roadmap for VOA and our peers as we work to integrate technology as a fundamental part of the lifestyle at affordable senior housing communities nationwide,” Samuels said.
To make affordable senior housing truly supportive, researchers identified five categories of technology that can meaningfully enhance the quality of life for older adults: connection and engagement; safety and security; health and wellness; lifelong learning; and caregiver resources.
According to the study, technology also should be treated as an essential part of the housing infrastructure, much like electricity or running water, that helps older adults maintain their physical health, mental wellness, and social connection.
Recommended baseline infrastructure includes:
- Reliable, broadband (10-plus gigabits per second) buildingwide Wi-Fi at low or no cost to residents;
- A wearable or fall-detection system, such as motion sensors or smartwatches, to support safety and independence. These devices must incorporate clear, user-friendly data-sharing settings so residents can decide what information is visible to support staff or caregivers;
- A personal tablet for every resident; and
- Smart appliances and fixtures such as motion-sensor lighting to reduce falls; safety-enhanced, induction-style stove with automatic turn-off features; doorbells with visual alerts and peepholes specially designed for residents with vision loss; and remote-controlled appliances.
Officials note that training and personal support are essential and that devices alone do not guarantee adoption. “Throughout this research, potential residents and staff alike emphasized that older adults learn best through ongoing, individualized support and opportunities to practice at their own pace,” says the report.
VOA officials noted that the findings are guiding the organization’s investments in pilots using “agetech,” a category of technologies, products, services, and experiences designed to meet the needs of the aging population, empowering older adults to live longer, healthier, and more independent lives.
The organization owns and operates more than 500 affordable housing properties in 42 states, including Puerto Rico, with more than 20,000 affordable units housing around 25,000 people each year. These include around 8,000 affordable units specifically aimed at older residents.
VOA is testing senior-centric PingCares watches with residents in Michigan; personalized, online Vivo fitness classes with residents in a Colorado community; and Joy for All robotic companion pets with 100 residents in Florida. VOA also is piloting innovative programming to increase social connectiveness through proven interventions in four housing properties in Florida and Texas.