CALA News & Views | Issue 55 | Elevating Engagement

For Liz Jensen, senior director, nursing success & care innovation for August Health and member of the CALA Board of Directors, the value comes down to intention. “When technology is used to create more opportunities, like virtual reality, it opens the door to conversation and shared experiences,” she said. At the same time, providers are careful not to lose sight of what matters most. As Ensor cautions, “we will lose what makes us special if we let technology take its place.” Meeting Residents Where They Are A common misconception is that older adults are not interested in technology. In reality, expectations are changing quickly. Ensor notes that expectations around technology are also changing among newer residents moving into communities. “They're expecting to have Alexa. They're expecting to have technology clean their homes, such as a Roomba in their apartment. They're expecting to have a temperature-controlled thermostat that's AI operated,” Ensor said. Jensen has seen the same trend. “Five to 10 years ago there was concern that older adults in senior living communities weren’t using these types of devices. Today that has changed significantly.” That does not mean every resident is equally comfortable, but communities should not assume resistance. Success often depends on support. “I think that communities that invest in some sort of support in regard to technology will actually be the communities that will have more success, not only on the adoption but also the engagement,” Baik said. Building Community Through Shared Experiences Engagement is strongest when it is communal and technology creates new ways for residents to share experiences together. For Baik, virtual reality stands out immediately. Whether residents are virtually traveling, revisiting familiar places or trying something new together, those experiences often spark conversation and connection long after the activity ends. Jensen also sees value in digital storytelling and resident created content. Communities are sharing videos of residents singing, dancing, performing or participating in friendly competitions. “Their understanding is that this is a way to engage with others,” she said. “It is a way to show their own individuality.”

emerging tools can help communities connect individuals with common backgrounds and preferences throughout the day, not just during scheduled programming. Expanding the Meaning of Community Technology is also broadening the idea of community, both inside and beyond the building. Digital platforms allow residents to message one another, share photos and stay engaged with what is happening around them. Ensor describes it as “almost like a community Facebook.” Technology also strengthens family connections. Jensen points to resident portals, smart photo frames and other tools that allow families to stay connected with loved ones throughout the day. Even simple connection points can make a meaningful difference. Baik has also seen technology help reconnect residents with one another. “Technology can bridge that gap,” she said. Resident and Staff Buy-In Matters Successful implementation depends on the technology itself. It requires engagement from both residents and staff. Baik emphasized the importance of resident ambassadors who can introduce new tools and encourage their peers. Residents often look to one another when deciding whether to try something new. Jensen agrees adoption works best when it is collaborative. Communities often overlook the importance of asking both staff and residents to be involved in the process. Ensor makes a similar point. When residents are invited to be partners in initiatives that affect their daily lives, adoption becomes stronger and more meaningful. A Strategic Investment in Well-Being For operators evaluating technology, the key is purpose. Jensen encourages communities to clearly define the challenge they want to address and ensure technology supports meaningful outcomes. “You really have to understand what problem you’re trying to solve,” she said. Technology should not be adopted simply because it is new, but because it helps address a real need — whether that is reducing isolation, improving communication, supporting staff or expanding resident choice. At its best, technology does not replace the warmth of community. It amplifies it. When communities use it thoughtfully to support independence, build shared experiences and strengthen connections, technology becomes more than equipment. It becomes a catalyst for belonging. g

Technology can also help residents discover shared interests and build new relationships. Ensor notes that

CALA NEWS & VIEWS I ISSUE 55 | APRIL 2026 28