Experiences of Rhode Island Assisted Living Facilities in Connecting Residents with Families through Technology During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Abstract

Rhode Island ALFs were contacted to determine if they were interested in receiving smart device donations. After donations were made, an impact survey was electronically administered. Primary Results: A total of 11 facilities completed the survey with a response rate of 24% (11/46). The facilities were located throughout all five counties in Rhode Island, with the majority located in Providence County. All but one of the facilities that responded to the survey (n=10, 90.9%) have used the devices to allow residents to video-call their family members. Seven responses (63.6%) indicated that devices were used for more than one purpose. Primary Conclusions: Smart devices were well received by Rhode Island ALFs and used for purposes beyond video conference calls. ALFs should consider advertising the need for devices to encourage community donations. Future studies should investigate the direct impact that digital connectivity has had on Rhode Island ALF residents.