Technology Shaping the Way for Senior Living

Information Technology plays an increasingly important part of all our lives to access information, buy goods and book services, and keeping the older generation connected is now a major consideration in retirement living communities.

As seniors continue to adapt to the ever-evolving technical landscape, recent reports show approximately 75 percent of older adults with internet connection use it daily. During the pandemic, many seniors had to quickly adapt to using technology to stay connected and keep in touch with loved ones, and for practicalities such as booking GP appointments, medication alerts and online shopping and deliveries.

With this in mind, all homes at Rangeford Villages’ latest developments at Siddington Park in Cirencester, due for completion early next year, and Homewood Grove in Chertsey, which is currently under construction, will be fitted with TIS Sentinel SmartLink tablets.

This integrated in-home technology allows residents to do many things from controlling who they let into their home, to calling the concierge, operational and care teams, to getting updates on village life. It also allows them access to village health and wellness apps, keeping in touch with other residents, family, and friends and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends.

Howard Nankivell, Chief Executive Officer at Rangeford Villages commented:

“At Rangeford, we recognise the vital role that connected technology in later living plays and it’s only set to increase in prominence. We want to empower the residents with our in-home technology devices, which all work together to keep residents feeling safe, connected, whilst at the same time giving them independence in their homes.

“In addition, at Rangeford’s recent Preview Event for Homewood Grove, we gave away free Fitbits. These watches are perfect for active seniors looking to get useful health insights and they can also be integrated with Rangeford’s new SmartLink Tablets.”

To further assist residents with their technical requirements, at Wadswick Green in Wiltshire, Rangeford run a weekly IT drop-in clinic with IT Consultant, Oliver Porter at Swarm ICT, which is designed to help residents with any technological issues or questions they may have.

Oliver commented: “I have noticed a big increase in the number of residents using technology on a daily basis, and my clinic is becoming increasingly popular.  It’s a great way of dealing with residents’ queries and to give advice on anything from how to use devices, avoid online scams and generally help them to become more tech savvy, and I really enjoy my role.”

Siddington Park in Cirencester and Homewood Grove Villages will be home to several state-of-the-art amenities to encourage residents to lead an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Facilities will include a wellbeing centre (pool, steam room and sauna) gym, bistro and bar, complete with a coffee shop, cinema, hair and beauty salon, as well as stunning communal landscaped areas.

For details of all Rangeford Villages developments, including Wadswick Green in Wiltshire and Mickle Hill in North Yorkshire, please call the friendly team on 0800 1357420.