Senior living operators are observing a significant shift in job candidates' priorities, with many now inquiring about the use of specific communication technologies during interviews. This trend underscores the increasing importance of modern tools in the senior living sector, particularly as it grapples with severe staffing shortages. According to Greg Robertson, SVP and General Manager at Notify, a healthcare software company, caregivers are making technology a key factor in their employment decisions, often preferring communities that utilize smartphone-based communication tools like Notify.
The preference for modern communication tools over traditional equipment such as SIP phones, pagers, and walkie-talkies is driven by their ease of use and efficiency. Legacy systems, which can cost between $150 and $1,000 per device, are often seen as bulky and frustrating by caregivers who are accustomed to the convenience of smartphones. Notify addresses this issue by offering a software-over-hardware solution that allows senior living communities to modernize their communication systems without replacing existing nurse call infrastructure, thereby providing a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative. This approach is detailed further at https://www.notify.com/solutions/senior-living.
This shift towards modern communication tools is not only about caregiver satisfaction but also about improving care coordination and operational efficiency. Unified platforms like Notify enable better data analytics and reporting, giving leadership insights into caregiver responses and contributions. With the senior population expected to grow significantly in the coming decades, meeting workforce technology expectations is becoming crucial for senior living operators to attract and retain adequate care teams. The implications extend to broader industry trends, as discussed in resources like https://www.leadingage.org/technology, which explore how technology integration is reshaping senior care delivery.
The emphasis on modern tools reflects a larger transformation in the senior living workforce, where technology adoption is no longer optional but a competitive necessity. Operators who fail to upgrade their communication systems risk losing potential hires to more technologically advanced communities, exacerbating existing staffing challenges. This dynamic highlights the need for strategic investments in solutions that align with caregiver preferences while enhancing operational outcomes. As the sector evolves, the integration of user-friendly technology will likely play a pivotal role in sustaining quality care amidst demographic shifts and workforce constraints.
