"We want to redefine the idea of senior centers. As institutions, we have to make that call: to provide not just a service, but an experience that people enjoy."
This was stated by Juan David Holguín, a member of ACOGER Gerontological Community , an organization focused on connecting professionals, companies, institutions, volunteers, and families to benefit older adults.
The above was part of 'Digital Transformation for the Lives of Older Adults,' a webinar organized by Theramart and ACOGER , in which Catalina Zapata and Juan Camilo Álvarez, also members of this organization, also participated.
During the presentation, topics such as rapid technological evolution and the resulting "digital divide" were touched upon, as well as nursing homes and whether people would consider taking a loved one there, and how there have been some changes in mentality regarding these issues.
What do we call the 'digital divide' between young people and older adults?
During his participation, Colombian Juan David Holguín spoke about the rapid evolution of technology and the changes it has generated worldwide. "Whenever we talk about evolution, we talk about a gap," he said.
To discuss the rapidity of technological advancement, he compared rotary-dial telephones, pagers (commonly called beepers), and computers from the 1980s.
"Those three elements came together, and today we have them in a single tool. Our cell phone has absorbed that and more."
He also stated that people's consumption has transformed in the digital age , as they can now shop, watch TV shows, send messages, work, or communicate with others via the Internet.
The stigma that care centers carry
Juan David also took the opportunity to talk about senior care centers. He commented that at the organization where he works, they often ask those who consult them if they would live or take their parents or grandparents to a nursing home .
"Some people are afraid to talk about this issue because we've demonized the issue of senior centers, because we have this idea that we leave them there, and then there's abandonment."
However, it's precisely this stigma they're working against. "People are looking for spaces where they're not alone. There's a disruption in this sector, because we no longer just buy products and services. Today, what we make and consume are experiences ," he emphasized.
During her participation, Holguín also showcased success stories related to care centers. For example, in London, there are intergenerational care centers where children and the elderly care for each other . Another example is academies for seniors, which help them learn how to grow older, as well as clubs and communities that offer assistance with services in addition to housing.
"Today, we're not competing from one home to another, but rather, we're competing with whoever best presents a service or product. And how does that translate? It's a good experience, so our loved one feels comfortable in that place," he emphasized.
Redefining the Prejudice About Nursing Homes
With the aim of redefining the perception that people often have about care centers, Juan David spoke about the advantages these places offer . For example, people live with people of the same age.
“Sharing with a peer is much more effective,” he commented.
He also said that these facilities are supported and supervised by qualified personnel, that there are multiple comprehensive care services, and that maximum autonomy is promoted.
"Institutions are still a business and need to keep their clients and their families completely happy and vibrant," he added.
Finally, he spoke about the changes in mentality that have been taking place in this regard. "But not only in society, but also among older adults, despite the limitations that this natural process of life imposes on us. It's also older adults who must change that mentality. It's a matter of attitude and mentality."
Two real cases of a change of mentality in this new era
The expert shared two examples: One is Concha García Zaera, known on social media as @conchagzaera , a 90-year-old Spanish woman who regularly paints using the digital program Paint and shares her work on Instagram, where she has 291,000 followers. “Today, many people follow her because we want to see what she can offer us from there.”
Another example is Isabella Dryden, a 99-year-old Canadian woman who works as a computer teacher . “Today, she teaches many people; not just English and languages, but also technology. She is a clear example that change is possible.”
The expert concluded his presentation by returning to the topic of the digital divide and how fair and equitable access to digital connectivity can be achieved.
“The answer to this question is still very complex. But we could deepen the gap, the difference between who can access and use the internet. It should be a right; everyone should have access to it. We must offer our seniors the way to access it, connect, and enjoy it,” he concluded.
Did you find the topic of this seminar interesting? You can continue reading the second part, related to technology for older adults. Click here!
