40 per cent of seniors credit technology for deeper connection with loved ones

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Published March 17, 2021 at 11:48 pm

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With multiple COVID-19 vaccines already available, and more expected to be coming in the near future, many are starting to look at what post-pandemic life will look like.

According to recent research from Home Instead, Inc., Canadian seniors—one of the demographics hardest-hit by the virus—are starting to reevaluate what’s important to them as they age.

Based on the findings, 69 per cent of seniors said the pandemic has made them more committed to staying in their homes as they get older, and 68 per cent are apprehensive about moving into a long-term care facility.

Additionally, as a result of the pandemic, 52 per cent of Canadian seniors are more comfortable using technology, while 35 per cent are more comfortable using technology to help with their care at home.

Further, 46 per cent of seniors are using video calling more or for the first time since the start of the pandemic, and 40 per cent are reporting deeper connections with their loved ones as a result.

Moreover, 72 per cent said they intend to continue using technology to communicate even after the pandemic is over.

“The pandemic has been absolutely devastating for our senior populations, but if there’s a silver lining, it’s that we’ve been given an opportunity to reimagine how we care for seniors in the future,” Lakelyn Hogan, gerontologist and caregiver advocate for Home Instead, said in a news release.

“As we rebuild, it’s clear we need to work harder to provide safe, viable opportunities for seniors to age how they wish to age—where ever they call home,” she continued.

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