Meeting the Resident Tech Support Demand at BHI
At BHI Senior Living, we believe that technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for our residents. As we continue to prioritize innovative, resident-centered care, we are excited to share how our partnership with The Smarter Service is transforming the way we integrate technology into our communities at The Barrington of Carmel and Four Seasons Retirement Community.
The Growing Role of Technology in Senior Living
Technology has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives, providing advantages for people of all ages. For older adults, it brings enhanced safety, better communication, a wealth of entertainment options, improved health monitoring, and increased independence. At BHI, our residents are embracing this digital age, with each person owning an average of 4 to 7 devices. However, despite the benefits these devices offer, not all residents are fully equipped to use them effectively, leading to a rising demand for tech support. This growing need highlights the importance of timely assistance, allowing our staff to stay focused on delivering the high-quality care and services our residents deserve. By offering this support, we not only meet resident needs but also streamline the introduction of new technology programs, enhancing both operations and the overall quality of life for residents and staff alike.
Addressing the Impact on Staff and Operations
As tech usage among our residents has grown, staff members are now spending up to 15% of their time on tech support, which has naturally shifted some focus away from their primary caregiving duties. This increased need for tech assistance has also kept our IT department actively engaged, as they balance resident requests while continuing to implement and install new technologies to enhance community efficiency.
BHI’s Vision for Tech Integration
At BHI, we are committed to forward-thinking solutions that meet the evolving needs of our residents and our employees. Recognizing the growing importance and use of technology, we sought to provide enhanced tech support services. This led to our partnership with The Smarter Service, a tech concierge provider dedicated to bridging the digital divide for older adults. By offering comprehensive tech support, we aim to improve resident satisfaction and overall quality of life within our communities.
Empowering Residents with Tech Skills and Confidence
In today’s world, it’s crucial for older adults to feel confident with technology. Our residents use personal devices to stay connected with friends and family, and they also engage with community technology, such as our engagement platforms, to stay updated on local happenings.
We want our residents to navigate these different types of technology smoothly and have access to help when needed. Our partnership with The Smarter Service allows us to expand our ability to support this demand. Their team provides walk-up, on-demand assistance at our busy tech bar, where residents frequently seek help with a wide range of issues—from setting up iPhones, iPads, and Android smartphones to managing MacBook settings and installing apps. Additionally, in-home tech appointments are always fully booked, demonstrating the high demand for personalized, in-depth support.
Looking ahead, we will continue collaborating with The Smarter Service to offer enrichment programming and classes to help residents discover all that tech has to offer. Our goal is to not only resolve tech issues but to empower residents with the skills and knowledge to live happier, healthier, and more connected lives while maximizing the benefits of technology in our communities.
Leveraging Data for Future Investments
At BHI, we understand the importance of leveraging data to enhance the living experience for our residents and staff. Through our partnership with The Smarter Service, we are collecting valuable insights into residents’ tech use, needs, and challenges. This information is crucial for guiding future technology investments and infrastructure planning. By understanding how residents interact with technology, we can make informed decisions that improve daily living, streamline operations, and address the evolving needs of our community.
Prioritizing Tech Support: A Trend That’s Here to Stay
Providing tech support in senior living communities is no longer a luxury but a necessity. As technology continues to evolve, the need for comprehensive tech support services will only grow. So far, residents have responded positively to the enhanced support, demonstrating increased confidence and satisfaction. Families are thrilled to learn this support is available for their loved ones, ensuring they can stay easily connected. BHI is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, ensuring our residents and employees have the tools and confidence to thrive in the digital age.
