Technology Benefits Masonic Care Community Residents
In just three years, the first of the baby boomers will turn 65. It is estimated that more than 40 million of them are already on line and are one of the fastest growing segments of internet users. The Masonic Care Community is already in the future, as Acacia Village, Wiley Hall and the Healthcare Pavilion are wired. Residents have computer connections in their private rooms as well as in the common areas of these buildings. The Director of Activities at the Masonic Care Community, Paul Stern notes there are specific benefits to residents. "Residents feel less isolated because they can communicate with relatives and friends through e-mail and instant messaging. Our seniors like to keep up on current events, and the internet gives them access to a wide range of sites." Stern says the Masonic Care Community has classes to help residents become more comfortable with the new technology. "Some of our residents started out playing solitaire, and are now surfing the web".
Computer games can also be a great benefit to seniors. There's interest across the country in the use of games such as Nintendo's WII as a physical therapy tool. This technology gives individuals with limited mobility an opportunity to compete in games they may have enjoyed in their younger days. The WII can become a spectator sport, as other residents watch the competition. The fun factor extends further as it addresses range of motion, boosts coordination, benefits circulation and addresses hand eye coordination without over exertion. Residents also enjoy being able to play the games with their grandchildren, and grandchildren are excited to compete with their grandparents.
continoturnerk@masoniccommunityny.org
