BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Oct. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Seniors 80 and over
yearn to be connected but many are not, causing a more than quarter
of them to become "virtual shut-ins." While a new survey shows use
of social technology is linked to better wellbeing for people in
this age group and demonstrates its potential for combating
isolation, it also reveals their frustration and need for
assistance in becoming part of the digital world. These findings
come from a "Rewiring Aging" survey supported by Brookdale Senior
Living, conducted by Kelton, a leading global insights firm in
collaboration with the Stanford Center on Longevity. It is the
first in-depth study of how online social networking and similar
tech-based activities affect the quality of life among America's
fastest-growing demographic segment.
Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here:
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Fifty-eight percent of seniors surveyed believe technology can
improve communication with family and friends. This belief is borne
out by the findings; respondents who indicated they interact with
loved ones through social technology report having higher life
satisfaction and health and being more likely to attain life goals
than those who do not use social technology.
However, few people 80 and above surveyed are actually
experiencing these benefits. Only one-third use a personal computer
at least once a month and fewer than one in five utilizes text
messaging. Twenty-seven percent can be considered "virtual
shut-ins" who do not use any technological devices, apps or
programs. A major reason is the perceived difficulty; nearly half
say it takes too long to understand and keep pace with new
technology.
The negative impact of isolation for seniors unable to
physically go out into the world due to physical or cognitive
conditions is well known. The "Rewiring Aging" survey reveals a
similar impact for those who are "virtually shut-in." Those seniors
reported lower overall life satisfaction, poorer physical health
and greater loneliness than the survey group as a whole. These
findings represent cause for concern and reveal the potential for
changing for the better, according to Brookdale's Chief Medical
Officer Kevin O'Neil,
M.D.
"Human connection is crucial for people at all ages, but
especially so for seniors," said Dr. O'Neil, a board-certified
internist and geriatrician. "Loneliness in this age group is
associated with shorter life spans, chronic conditions such as high
blood pressure, depression and even dementia. That's why engaging
seniors with others is a focus of our communities. Helping those in
their 80s and above connect through technology is an opportunity to
enhance their wellbeing even
further."
Indeed, a third of respondents would like to be able to text or
videochat with family and friends; over a quarter would be
interested in taking group classes to learn how. Only five percent
say they are completely opposed to new technology.
"This study puts data to what we have been seeing on a daily
basis across our organization as we help our residents connect
through technology," said Sara
Terry, Brookdale's Vice President of Resident and Family
Engagement. The company has been helping those in its care to learn
to use Skype and social networking technology with its InTouch
computer system, which is designed to be easy for seniors to use.
The company is also developing an iPad mentor program. "We find
that most are very receptive and that it quickly becomes an
important part of their lives. It brings wonderful emotional
benefits that complement the focus on relationships and connection
that is central to our mission."
The "Rewiring Aging" survey was conducted as part of Brookdale's
commitment to enrich the lives of its residents through the use of
technology. Brookdale is the nation's largest senior living
company, with approximately 1,135 communities in 47
states. The "Rewiring Aging" survey was conducted by Kelton, a
leading global insights firm, between May 21
and June 5, 2015 among 445 nationally representative adults
ages 80 and over, using both a telephone and online survey
methodology. Quotas were set to ensure reliable and accurate
representation of the entire U.S. population of adults aged 80 and
over. With this sample size, the margin of error is +/- 5
percentage points, and the margin of error for any subgroups will
be slightly higher.
The Stanford Center on Longevity provided guidance on the design
of the "Rewiring Aging" survey, as well as analysis of results. The
Center, whose founding director is Laura
Carstensen, Ph.D., was established in 2007 at Stanford University with the mission of redesigning
long life. Researchers Dawn Carr,
Andrew Reed and Tamara Sims participated in the "Rewiring Aging"
study.
About Brookdale Senior Living
Brookdale Senior Living Inc. is the leading operator of
senior living communities throughout the
United States. The Company is committed to providing senior
living solutions primarily within properties that are designed,
purpose-built and operated to provide the highest-quality service,
care and living accommodations for residents. Currently Brookdale
operates independent living, assisted living, and dementia-care
communities and continuing care retirement centers, with
approximately 1,135 communities in 47 states and the ability to
serve approximately 110,000 residents. Through its ancillary
services program, the Company also offers a range of outpatient
therapy, home health, personalized living and hospice
services.
Contact: Kristin Puckett,
615-564-8481, kpuckett@brookdale.com
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SOURCE Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.