News
A new report has predicted the managed Wi-Fi services market at senior living communities could reach $1 billion by 2029.
By: Brad Randall, Broadband Communities
A rapidly aging population will dramatically alter the current housing landscape in the United States, according to a report from Maravedis, which predicted significant market growth for managed Wi-Fi services at senior communities.
The report, titled “Connectivity Trends for Senior Living in the United States,” concluded that America’s aging baby boomer population has become accustomed to high-speed internet access, and will demand it at senior living communities during their golden years.
“Contrary to popular belief, seniors have become increasingly technology savvy and are enthusiastic internet users,” said Adlane Fellah, a chief analyst at Maravedis, in publicized comments that discussed the report. “While managed Wi-Fi is not yet widely adopted, it is gradually making its way into the senior living arena, especially for independent living properties with more than seventy-five units.”
Fellah’s comments also highlighted the social benefits of managed Wi-Fi in senior communities, like reducing the sense of isolation for senior residents and assisting staff with streamlined care processes.
“Streaming, video calls, Wi-Fi roaming, sensing, automation systems, the list of innovations that improve the well-being of senior residents while optimizing the working conditions of care staff is growing,” Fellah said.
Interviews with multi-dwelling unit (MDU) property owners and service providers are included with the report’s findings.
Mark Goheen, the director the MDU business unit at Ruckus Networks, is one of the voices quoted in the Maravdeis report.
“Baby boomers, possessing a significantly higher technical IQ than previous generations, are entering senior living facilities in record numbers,” Goheen said. “This demographic shift is increasing the demand for high-quality Wi-Fi, not just in individual residences but also in common areas where residents engage in dining and social activities.”
Goheen added that managed Wi-Fi is an “optimal solution” in regard to enhancing both the resident experience and net operating incomes for owners and operators.
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