Elements Retirement Village at Springwood in Queensland will be launching an innovative new community connect program next week, in an aim to boost social engagement and tech literacy amongst residents.
The project will equip households within the village with an iPad that has access to a cloud-based communications hub, giving residents direct access to village administration, family and friends, and even make use of village services and amenities - all with the touch of a button.
One of the greatest uses for the device is that of security cameras connected to homes, so residents can see visitors at their entry before allowing gate access remotely.
Elements Managing Director Chiou See Anderson said the tech development for the village make social, financial, and environmental sense.
"The ipads are pre-programmed with all the information and services they need for village life," Ms Anderson said.
The new communications hub is part of Elements' innovation strategy, which began in 2010 with installation of a private fibre optic network providing super fast internet speeds.
"We are at the forefront of using technology to encourage and improve social engagement amongst retirees," Ms Anderson said.
"It's about future-proofing the village and enabling our residents to maintain their ties and relationships with the people they love and care about. Being connected keeps you healthier and happier for longer."
Ms Anderson said it's a myth that older people don't like technology.
"Surveys show 80% of seniors are regularly online Facebooking, paying bills, doing business and booking holidays," she said.
"Our residents feel immensely proud to be keeping up with their tech-savvy grandchildren."
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