At Kisco Senior Living we are always tracking the trends as they relate to our residents and their needs. We are very aware of the seniors’ growing desire to be connected online and we were excited to find some great information posted by the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA).
Their findings indicate exactly what we’ve observed – more seniors are online. The latest survey data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that 42% of individuals 65 years and older actively access the Internet and 53% live in a setting with Internet access. What is really telling is that 42% represents a 50% jump in Internet use among this age group since 2000.
This is definitely true at Valencia Terrace where we offer our residents free Wi-Fi in all our common spaces including the bistro, club room and library. In addition we are working on offering more computer training and classes…because they are asking us for it! Marjorie Keith one of our original members living in the Casitas, says she uses the internet on a regular basis to send emails and searching for things. “I’m encouraged with all the things there are to learn and the fact that Kari, our Wellness Director is adamantly looking for another instructor. I believe in the internet’s infinite capacity to bring the world information.”
In another report issued by AARP in June, one quarter of 50+ adults use social media websites with 23% of them on Facebook. Nearly 75% of them are connected to relatives other than their children and grandchildren and most were introduced to Facebook by their own children.
Is Marjorie on Facebook? “Well, not yet…but I can’t wait to learn more about it.”
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