October 14,
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: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7617951-brookdale-seniors-technology/
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 atStanford 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.
