Anyone familiar with the senior living industry knows that communities remain under an intense microscope these days. But for every media story that places senior living in a broad, one-sided, or even unfair light these days, there are also success stories showcasing the innovative and caring spirit that continues to drive communities forward.
OneDay was the focal point of such a story recently, something we mention not to draw attention to our recent growth. Instead, we use it as a reminder that this wonderful, caring industry remains committed to providing compassionate care and a fulfilling quality of life for residents.
As referenced in the story, the recent health crisis has presented a significant challenge to senior living communities – how can you prevent isolation and loneliness during the coronavirus? And how can communities provide a sense of normalcy to senior living residents when physical contact with their loved ones is restricted?
That’s where OneDay’s video technology plays such a critical role for communities. Video is a convenient yet powerful way for seniors to tell stories to their families while they lack the ability to communicate face-to-face. As our Co-Founder and CEO, Clint Lee, says in the newscast:
"Our mission is to connect people through stories, and we were just fortunate enough to have a really easy-to-use video platform in senior living communities at the time when this pandemic unfortunately happened."
Zooming in on the psychological and emotional dangers brought forth by the pandemic, recent research indicates that loneliness and social isolation are as damaging to a person’s health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Unfortunately, seniors are especially susceptible to these hazards. A landmark geriatric study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine found that a staggering 46% of seniors feel lonely, despite only 18% of them actually living alone. That sense of isolation is a key contributor to health declines, making shelter-at-home orders and social distancing a double-edged sword for older generations and senior living communities.
The story from CBS-DFW & Yahoo! also features thoughts from Eric Varin, VP of Sales and Marketing at Allegro Senior Living, a partner we’ve highlighted in the past. When asked about the power of a OneDay video, particularly in today’s environment, Eric says:
"I love when we have a resident tell a story about something really special in the video, and then you hear back from the family and they say, 'Thank you for this gift.' It’s pretty special."
That’s the sort of sentiment that fuels both our vision and mission here at OneDay. Our video marketing technology is a real difference maker for senior living communities. It can foster a sense of home and community for residents, engage and motivate staff, and drive occupancy for communities by helping them differentiate themselves from competitors.
But from a bigger picture perspective, this recent news story on OneDay demonstrates something that too often gets lost in the shuffle these days – this is an industry that truly cares about the senior community. That will continue to address issues as they arise and use new solutions to drive both business and quality of life for residents.
OneDay couldn’t be prouder to be part of this positive narrative, and will continue to help propel senior living communities forward.