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	<title>Dialogue+</title>
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	<description>for Canada&#039;s retirement residence professionals</description>
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		<title>New Tool for Professional Care Managers: LivHOME CAREMONITOR™</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/new-tool-for-professional-care-managers-3289/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/new-tool-for-professional-care-managers-3289/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 13 Dec 2012 13:24:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Guest Author</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News and Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LivHome]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[professional care managers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=3289</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Professional care managers can use LivHOME CareMonitor™ to monitor seniors via the web, maintaining independence and safety. <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/new-tool-for-professional-care-managers-3289">Read more...</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Professional Care Managers Can Monitor Seniors via the Web, Maintaining Both Independence and Safety, </strong><strong>Offering A Cost-Saving Alternative to Home Care</strong></p>
<p><strong>Los Angeles, November 28, 2012</strong> – When Howard, a 90-year-old living in Walnut Creek, Calif., needs his blood pressure or oxygen level checked, the data are transmitted directly from monitors on his arm and finger and immediately made available to his geriatric Care Manager. His body weight is also sent from a Bluetooth-enabled scale.</p>
<div id="attachment_3290" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 610px"><img class="size-full wp-image-3290" title="iStock_000014168808Smallresized" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/iStock_000014168808Smallresized.jpg" alt="LivHome " width="600" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">A Cost Effective Alternative to Home Care?</p></div>
<p>Because Howard has congestive heart failure and lung disease, the ability to monitor this data is crucial. Yet, it is executed with ease in the comfort of his own home.</p>
<p>And when he wants to view new photos of family and friends or even listen to his favorite jazz, all Howard has to do is touch a button on the same, simple device that connects him with his <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/caregivers.php" target="_blank">Care Manager</a>.</p>
<p>Howard is one of the first seniors in the nation to use LivHOME CareMonitor™, a web-based, touch-screen service powered by GrandCare Systems that lets Howard’s professional Care Manager, Francesca Wood, monitor his health and safety remotely.</p>
<p>“With LivHOME CareMonitor™, I know that Francesca is aware of my health and vital signs at any time of the day, while I retain my independence and privacy. It also lets me stay connected with my family and friends at the touch of a button,” Howard said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.livhomecaremonitor.com" target="_blank">LivHOME CareMonitor™</a>, a remote care service first announced in March, is beginning to roll out nationwide where LivHOME services are offered. It is currently available in Los Angeles, Walnut Creek and Riverside, Calif., and will continue to be rolled out to additional markets in late 2012 and early 2013. LivHOME CareMonitor™ is provided by LivHOME, Inc., one of the nation’s largest providers of professionally led at-home care for seniors.</p>
<p>Seniors access the LivHOME CareMonitor™ service through an easy-to-use, web-based, touch-screen interface developed by GrandCare Systems. LivHOME Care Managers can monitor their clients using the web-based service and are alerted immediately if any problems arise. The system can track medication schedules, movements around the house and biometric readings such as blood pressure, glucose, blood oxygen and body weight.</p>
<p>“LivHOME CareMonitor™ represents an entirely new approach to <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/caregivers_in_action.php" target="_blank">caregiving</a>, enabling us to monitor the health and safety of our clients – but without the intrusiveness or cost of hands-on care. This provides greater independence and privacy, while significantly reducing the cost of care. It also extends our caregiving services to a whole new demographic of seniors, those who would benefit from some assistance to remain independent in their home but don’t require a full-time caregiver,” said Mike Nicholson, LivHOME’s Chief Executive Officer.</p>
<p>“In 1999, LivHOME was one of the first companies to place caregiver supervision under a professional Care Manager’s responsibility. In 2012, LivHOME is a pioneer once more – placing remote home care technology oversight under a Care Manager’s responsibility,” Nicholson continued.</p>
<p>Features of the LivHOME CareMonitor™ service include:</p>
<p>●      Professional Care Manager assessment</p>
<p>●      Installation and setup of system</p>
<p>●      Touch-screen computer</p>
<p>●      Personal emergency response system</p>
<p>●      24/7 alert monitoring and Care Manager availability</p>
<p>●      Medication, appointment and social reminders</p>
<p>●      Skype connectivity, photos, messages, music</p>
<p>●      Motion and pressure sensors, door monitors</p>
<p>●      Biometric measurements including weight, glucose, blood pressure, blood oxygen monitors</p>
<p>LivHOME CareMonitor™, powered by GrandCare Systems’ award-winning technology, is available in multiple configurations depending upon the needs of the individual senior.</p>
<p>To find out more about LivHOME CareMonitor™, please contact Mickey Goldkorn at <a href="mailto:mgoldkorn@livhome.com">mgoldkorn@livhome.com</a> or visit the LivHOME CareMonitor™ website at <a href="http://www.livhomecaremonitor.com/">www.livhomecaremonitor.com</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About LivHOME</strong></p>
<p>LivHOME is one of the nation&#8217;s largest providers of professionally led at-home care for seniors. The company is dedicated to finding solutions that enable older adults to remain in their homes as long as possible.  Based in Los Angeles, LivHOME delivers high quality at-home care throughout California as well as Arlington, Va., Atlanta, Austin, Tx., Boston, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Silver Spring, Md. and The Woodlands, Tx.</p>
<blockquote><p><strong>Related:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/caregivers.php" target="_blank">Caregiving</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/caregivers_in_action.php" target="_blank">Elder Care in Action</a></p></blockquote>
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		<title>5 Tips To Promote Literature In Your Retirement Community</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/5-tips-to-promote-literature-in-your-retirement-community-3260/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/5-tips-to-promote-literature-in-your-retirement-community-3260/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:51:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Communications</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Books]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Residence Communities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[community residences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[retirement community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seniors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[social]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=3260</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[5 tips to keep residents of your retirement community healthy, happy, active and social through a love of reading.  <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/5-tips-to-promote-literature-in-your-retirement-community-3260">Read more...</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Studies show that keeping your brain active is a great way to promote mental health and ward off the debilitating illnesses which often impact seniors, like Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and depression.</strong></p>
<div id="attachment_3261" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 610px"><img class="size-full wp-image-3261" title="iStock_000017141463Small" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/iStock_000017141463Small.jpg" alt="5 Tips to Promote Literacy in Your Retirement Community" width="600" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Book clubs are a great way to keep seniors active and social</p></div>
<p>Reading is a great way to help keep your brain fit. In fact, promoting literature is a good way to help seniors in your <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/retirement-home-options.php" target="_blank">community residences</a> get social and stay mentally active. Reading stimulates the brain and imagination. Also, a love of books can help your seniors connect with each other and get involved in stimulating conversation.</p>
<p>How can you promote literature in your retirement community?  Here are 5 tips to promote reading :</p>
<p><strong>1. Organize a book club</strong></p>
<p>Book clubs are a fun and easy way to promote literature. All you need is a few copies of the same book and a place to meet.  Most books have book club leader guides available online with questions that can help stimulate discussion &#8211; but it&#8217;s okay to let the discussion wander into the personal experiences, feelings and ideas of your members!</p>
<p>A book club helps give your seniors a sense of belonging and is a great way for new members of your community to meet and connect with new people.</p>
<p><strong>2. Invite a local author to speak</strong></p>
<p>Many local authors are happy to come and speak about and promote their books. Consider sending out an invitation to some local authors and then hosting an evening reading or discussion surrounding their book.</p>
<p><strong>3. Promote a book exchange program</strong></p>
<p>Many seniors are active readers, so it makes sense for retirement communities to promote book exchange programs where seniors can share books they have already read with each other. Not only is this a great way to promote reading, it is also an economical and environmentally friendly approach to literature.</p>
<p><strong>4. Coordinate with local libraries</strong></p>
<p>Local libraries often have a number of activities and programs designed for seniors. Consider contacting your local library to see how your retirement community can work with library staff to offer programs to your retirement community.</p>
<p><strong>5. Organize outings</strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Movies:</span></p>
<p>You&#8217;ll find that there are many books that are being made into movies. Consider reading the book through your book club or book exchange and then organizing a trip to the theatre to see the movie.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Theatre:</span></p>
<p>Classic literature by great writers like Shakespeare will certainly help keep the <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/blog/10-steps-for-better-mental-health-7583/" target="_blank">mind active</a>. Consider visiting local theatre companies or organizing a larger trip for your seniors so that they can enjoy a day or evening out to the theatre.</p>
<p><strong>Comfort Life Book Giveaway</strong></p>
<p>Consider promoting <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/" target="_blank">Comfort Life&#8217;s</a> latest book giveaway within your retirement community.  To enter, simply <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/blog/book-review-the-unlikely-pilgrimage-of-harold-fry-9038/" target="_blank">read our review of Rachel Joyce&#8217;s novel &#8220;The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry&#8221;</a> and respond to the question in the comments section before October 15, 2012 at 4pm.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;" dir="ltr">* * * * *</p>
<p><strong id="internal-source-marker_0.4075419867876917">How do you promote literature and reading in your retirement community? Share your experiences in the Comments section below.</strong></p>
<blockquote><p><strong id="internal-source-marker_0.4075419867876917"></strong><strong>Related:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/blog/book-review-the-unlikely-pilgrimage-of-harold-fry-9038/" target="_blank">Book Review: The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/blog/10-steps-for-better-mental-health-7583/" target="_blank">10 Steps for Better Mental Health</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/blog/seniors-who-volunteer-have-healthier-brains-6789/" target="_blank">Giving to Your Community is Good For Your Brain</a></p></blockquote>
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		<title>SERC Presents Chronicles of Future&#8217;s Past</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/serc-presents-chronicles-of-futures-past-3251/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/serc-presents-chronicles-of-futures-past-3251/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Sep 2012 17:37:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Communications</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News and Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Innovators & Experts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Residence Communities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chronicles of future's past]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jerry friedman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[retirement residences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[serc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sheridan elder research centre]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[supercentenarians]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=3251</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Sheridan Elder Research Centre (SERC) invites you to learn about the world's supercentenarians through "Chronicles of Future's Past", a photography exhibit by Jerry Friedman. The exhibit runs from Friday September 21 - Friday October 5.  <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/serc-presents-chronicles-of-futures-past-3251">Read more...</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The <strong>Sheridan Elder Research Centre (SERC)</strong> is presenting a unique exhibition of Jerry Friendman&#8217;s photographs of some of the oldest people on earth &#8211; individuals aged 110 +.  <a href="http://www.sheridancollege.ca/Services/Sheridan%20Research/Centres/SERC.aspx" target="_blank">SERC</a> is launching<strong></strong><em><strong> Chronicles of Future&#8217;s Past </strong></em>on Friday, September 21st. The exhibit will run until Friday October 5, 2012.</p>
<div id="attachment_3252" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 610px"><img class="size-full wp-image-3252" title="SERC Presents Chronicles of Future's Past by Jerry Friedman" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/SERC1.jpg" alt="Chronicles of Future's Past: Photographs of Supercentenarians by Jerry Friedman" width="600" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Photo Courtesy of the Sheridan Elder Research Centre and Jerry Friedman</p></div>
<p>In honour of the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/olderpersonsday/" target="_blank">United Nation&#8217;s International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2012</a> SERC is pleased to showcase <em>Chronicles of Future&#8217;s Past</em>, which celebrates the lives of these unique individuals:</p>
<blockquote><p>&#8220;Supercentenarians are those individuals ages 110 and older,&#8221; explains Pat Spadafora, director of SERC. &#8220;We are pleased to celebrate their lives and present this exhibit in honour of the United Nation&#8217;s International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2012.&#8221;</p></blockquote>
<p>Photographer Jerry Friedman spent four years travelling across ten countries to capture the portraits that are showcased in the exhibit.  As the first person to meet and interview so many supercentenarians, Jerry Friendman has a unique perspective about these amazing individuals who have pushed the limits of the human lifespan:</p>
<blockquote><p>&#8220;I was inspired by my own aging mother and thought it would be fascinating to create a showcase of inspirational poster people for longevity,&#8221; says Friedman. &#8220;The idea of traveling exhibitions of these portraits has taken on a great importance to me.&#8221;</p></blockquote>
<p>Friedman&#8217;s show is available for lending and is exhibiting in Canada for the first time, after already premiering in a number of international cities, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tokyo</li>
<li>Amsterdam</li>
<li>Washington</li>
<li>Boston</li>
<li>New York City at the United Nations</li>
</ul>
<p>Group tours are available, and provide a great opportunity for <a href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/retirement-home-options.php" target="_blank">retirement residences</a> and school communities to honour these supercentenarians and celebrate the United Nation&#8217;s International Day of Older Persons.</p>
<p><strong>Exhibition Details</strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Date:</span> The exhibition runs from Friday September 21, 2012 until Friday October 5, 2012</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Time:</span> The exhibition is open Monday &#8211; Thursday 10 a.m. &#8211; 7 p.m. and Friday 10 a.m. &#8211; 5 p.m</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Where:</span> The Sheridan Gallery, AA Wing &#8211; located at Sheridan College&#8217;s Trafalgar Road campus in Oakville, Ontario (1430 Trafalgar Road, Oakville, Ontario L6H 2L1)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Contact Information:</span> For more information about group tours contact Monika Strzalkowska &#8211; strzamon@sheridanc.on.ca or 905-845-9430 x 32203.</p>
<p><strong>About The Sheridan Elder Research Centre (SERC)</strong></p>
<p>The Sheridan Elder Research Centre provides:</p>
<ul>
<li>A unique environment for applied research into areas of practical concern and immediate relevance to older Canadians</li>
<li>A friendly, accessible applied research environment where older adults from the community not only participate in research, but contribute to its direction</li>
</ul>
<p>For more information about SERC or the <em>Chronicles of Future&#8217;s Past</em> please <a href="http://www.sheridancollege.ca/Services/Sheridan%20Research/Centres/SERC/Ask%20a%20Question.aspx" target="_blank">contact Paulina Camino</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;" dir="ltr">* * * * *</p>
<p><strong id="internal-source-marker_0.08317409572191536">If you had the opportunity to meet a supercentenarian what question would you ask them? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.</strong></p>
<blockquote><p><strong id="internal-source-marker_0.08317409572191536"></strong><strong>Related:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-build-authentic-relationships-with-boomers-and-seniors-2587/" target="_blank">How to Build Authentic Relationships With Boomers and Seniors</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p></blockquote>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>iPads in Senior Housing: Useful or Frustrating?</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/ipads-in-senior-housing-useful-frustrating-2632/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/ipads-in-senior-housing-useful-frustrating-2632/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Sep 2012 18:16:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laurie Orlov</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Innovators & Experts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Residence Communities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Resources]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iPads for seniors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[laurie orlov]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[senior housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[senior housing residents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology for seniors]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=2632</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Laurie Orlov examines the hype surrounding the usefulness of iPads for senior housing residents by looking at the possibilities, and possible frustrations for seniors using the devices and for the administration and staff who would be helping them. Hype alert &#8212; for senior housing residents &#8212; iPads may both amaze and confound.  Caution &#8212; this [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Laurie Orlov examines the hype surrounding the usefulness of iPads for senior housing residents by looking at the possibilities, and possible frustrations for seniors using the devices and for the administration and staff who would be helping them.</strong></p>
<div id="attachment_3243" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 610px"><img class="size-full wp-image-3243" title="ipads in Senior Housing: Useful or Frustrating?" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ipads-seniors-tapestry-at-westbrook-village-brett-beadle.jpg" alt="ipads in Senior Housing" width="600" height="300" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Photo Courtesy of Westbrook Village - Brett Beadle</p></div>
<p><strong>Hype alert &#8212; for senior housing residents &#8212; iPads may both amaze and confound.</strong>  Caution &#8212; this is not a review, even though I have a brightly lit iPad next to me as I write this text on a PC. I still love my PC because I&#8217;ve become fond its high feedback QWERTY keyboard with its easy-to-find punctuation, mouse access to grabbing text and URLs easily, and other conveniences that have rather grown on me over the years.  I admit to loving the iPad for reading a book, as a home music streamer, watching a movie on a plane, looking at my street from a satellite, and examining news sites.  But this is not about me. This is about the use of an iPad in senior housing settings. For example, check out this video made by a Colorado news station that shows an iPad tutorial for the over-88 senior housing residents &#8212; which I just watched for the third time.</p>
<p><strong>What the video suggests to me &#8212; support requirements.  </strong>The iPad can be great for seniors &#8211;<a href="http://senior-technology.com/wordpress/2010/04/09/a-little-more-about-the-ipad-for-senior-citizens-its-not-quite-a-laptop-but-its-close-and-its-cool/" target="_blank"> everyone says so</a>. But is that so? For one thing, watch a resident try to hold it upright and share a peek with her neighbor &#8212; does it look perilously balanced to you?  Okay, consider a folding stand case that keeps it propped upright for those with shaky or weak hands who might let it slip. Next &#8212; note the helpful staffer providing step-by-step (or pinch-by-touch) guidance on what they&#8217;re looking at, whether it&#8217;s a crossword puzzle, a piano keyboard, or a satellite view within Google Maps. The staffer seems to be the key to enabling residents to &#8216;slide to unlock&#8217; the iPad&#8217;s mysteries, never mind its screen. Founder of Balfour Senior Living Community Michael Schonbrun believes that the iPad will keep residents mentally (and physically???) sharp. According to the video, Balfour plans to develop a check-out system so that residents can take them back to their rooms.  I am not so sure that&#8217;s such a good idea &#8212; first check out (and print out) an <a href="http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/ipad-for-seniors-for-dummies-cheat-sheet.html" target="_blank">iPad for Seniors For Dummies Cheat Sheet</a>.  Look over the Restrictions option under General Settings and consider disabling a number of functions, including Installing and Deleting Apps. Read some forums on limitations associated with <a href="https://discussions.apple.com/community/ipad/ipad_in_the_enterprise" target="_blank">administering iPads</a> for groups.</p>
<p><strong>Watching a fellow passenger &#8212; maybe sticky note reminders might help. </strong>For those who&#8217;ve struggled with new user interfaces these many years, it was no surprise watching the <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/who-will-buy-all-the-useful-technology-for-seniors-and-by-what-date-3208/" target="_blank">70&#8242;s-plus gentleman</a> on the airplane aisle poke, pinch, and trial-and-error stab at his iPad (first rev, he said, acquired right after the launch), so that he could switch from the user interface of his book to his movie to listening to an Elvis Presley song &#8212; each of which had its own peculiarities, er, styles. Trial-and-error is not so bad, though &#8212; unless it <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/does-todays-tech-alienate-the-elderly/" target="_blank">frustrates</a>. Once tech staff has decided on an app selection and checkout process, maybe the next step might be tailoring an iPad cheat sheet plastic card attached to the case. And while setting up each and every iPad, be sure to evaluate and enable the Accessibility options for the visually or hearing impaired &#8212; that&#8217;s worth examining and learning about through <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLSaWwbuhfc" target="_blank">videos</a> and <a href="http://www.aisquared.com/blog/2011/04/ipad-accessibility-what%E2%80%99s-new/" target="_blank">blogs</a> of those who are using these options to maximum effect.</p>
<p><strong>Technology never just drops in on little cat feet.  </strong>Three-fourths of the benefit comes from people &#8212; evangelists like blogger Maurie Hill (above) or early adopters like Michael Schonbrun (the Balfour video) &#8212; but also from activities staff who first train themselves and then are passionate about overcoming tech administrator obstacles. For example, it appears that you must have a credit card on file with iTunes to download a free app like <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/virtuoso-piano-free-2-hd/id304075989?mt=8" target="_blank">Virtuoso Piano</a> so that an 88-year-old can tap out a tune. I do agree with Ellen in the video that a real P-I-A-N-O is best for playing the piano, but when that isn&#8217;t feasible &#8212; maybe the two-sided version of this app for simultaneous keyboard players (no kidding) could be mesmerizing, not to mention interactive &#8212; or it could drive staff members insane.</p>
<p><strong>Wait and see? </strong>With more than 80 tablets bursting into the marketplace, maybe more flexibility for administrators in multi-resident user environments will be a key feature of those competitors who are intent on giving Apple some competition and may offer guidance on transcending iPad multi-user <a href="http://www.enterprisemobiletoday.com//article.php/3869806" target="_blank">administration issues</a>.  Tablets are portable and have glow-in-the dark back lighting, so they may be very useful for CCRCs, etc.  So go ahead, those who already know how best to deploy in a senior housing setting, speak up!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;" dir="ltr">* * * * *</p>
<p><strong id="internal-source-marker_0.4461152176372707">What do you think? Are iPads a good idea for senior housing administrators, staff and residents? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.</strong></p>
<blockquote><p><strong id="internal-source-marker_0.4461152176372707"></strong><strong>Related:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/who-will-buy-all-the-useful-technology-for-seniors-and-by-what-date-3208/" target="_blank">Who Will Buy All The Useful Technology For Seniors?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/does-todays-tech-alienate-the-elderly/" target="_blank">Does Today&#8217;s Tech Alienate the Elderly?</a></p></blockquote>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Coaching and Mentoring for Seniors</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/coaching-and-mentoring-for-seniors-2064/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/coaching-and-mentoring-for-seniors-2064/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Aug 2012 09:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Management and Leadership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coaching]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mentoring]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=2064</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Coaching and mentoring is increasingly being recognized as a critical factor in keeping seniors motivated. It has been acknowledged that when there is some form of coaching or mentoring, seniors thrive. Today many lifestyle communities automatically assign a mentor or coach to new residents. &#160; &#160; What exactly does coaching and mentoring mean when it [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Coaching and mentoring is increasingly being recognized as a critical factor in keeping seniors motivated. It has been acknowledged that when there is some form of <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/seven-questions-before-developing-leaders/" class="broken_link">coaching or mentoring</a>, seniors thrive. Today many lifestyle communities automatically assign a mentor or coach to new residents.</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3240" title="senior-mentoring" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/senior-mentoring.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="300" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>What exactly does coaching and mentoring mean when it comes to seniors and retirement communities?</p>
<p><strong>Coaching</strong></p>
<p>A senior’s lifestyle coach is much like a sports coach. They help set and achieve specific goals and objectives. Coaches offer practical and relevant guidance to really maximize retirement.</p>
<p><strong>Mentoring</strong></p>
<p>A mentor can be seen as a wise, experienced friend, someone to trust and confide in. A mentor leads by example and is a role model. They help you see the big picture and understand the politics of your new community.</p>
<p>A coach can be a mentor and a mentor can be a coach, or the role can be rolled into one. The key is that whatever term you use, the person being coached or mentored gets unbiased support and guidance.</p>
<p>Benefits of Coaching and Mentoring</p>
<p>When you work with a coach or mentor you benefit in many ways:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Have a safe place to offload</li>
<li>Get unbiased, confidential support</li>
<li>Gain fresh perspectives on your issues</li>
<li>Gain insight into yourself and the people in your community</li>
<li>Develop skills you already have</li>
<li>Learn new skills</li>
<li>Get advice, suggestions and options</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Coaching and Mentoring Theory</p>
<p>A good coach or mentor should demonstrate the follow characteristics:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Maintain confidentiality</li>
<li>Excellent listening and responding skills</li>
<li>Non-judgmental</li>
<li>Objective outlook</li>
<li>Advises rather than tells</li>
<li>Has the individuals best interests at heart</li>
<li>Makes no promises about outcomes</li>
<li>Has a high degree of integrity</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Who will buy all the useful technology for seniors—and by what date?</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/who-will-buy-all-the-useful-technology-for-seniors-and-by-what-date-3208/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/who-will-buy-all-the-useful-technology-for-seniors-and-by-what-date-3208/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jul 2012 06:08:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laurie Orlov</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seniors and internet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seniors and technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seniors and TV]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=3208</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We always hear that seniors are adapting to technology at a very healthy rate but are they really? And if they are, how can residences best take advantage of it?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Senior housing organizations want to accelerate development and adoption. </strong>Reading an <a href="http://seniorhousingnews.com/2012/05/13/on-the-record-majd-alwan-executive-director-of-leadingage-cast/" target="_blank">interview with Majd Alwan</a>, SVP and Executive Director of Leading Age’s CAST group, you would believe that we are on the cusp of widespread adoption of technology for older adults in the senior housing: Says Majd: &#8220;CAST brings developers—big ones like Phillips and Intel-GE Care Innovations, all the way to small start-ups—together with forward thinking and pioneering service providers who understand the value of technology and are exploring technology-enabled care models and implementing them in their communities, and researchers.&#8221;</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3210" title="senior man pointing remote control 598 x 298" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/senior-man-pointing-remote-control-598-x-298.jpg" alt="" width="598" height="298" /></p>
<p><strong>Grant money is moving – to accelerate development and adoption. </strong>As I already wrote, Link-age <a href="http://www.ageinplacetech.com/blog/more-things-remain-same-sometimes-they-change">is launching a $20 million ‘gray’ fund</a> to accelerate the ‘creation of products and services.’  CMS just completed a massive initiative to <a href="http://innovation.cms.gov/initiatives/Innovation-Awards/index.html" target="_blank">award grants in Health Care Innovation</a>. This week the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA &#8212; yup, they runs CES) <a href="http://www.marketwatch.com/story/cea-launches-foundation-in-support-of-seniors-and-people-with-disabilities-2012-06-27" target="_blank">Foundation announced its first grant ever</a> &#8211; to &#8220;bring Self Help&#8217;s Virtual Senior Center project to more locations, eventually bringing it to nationwide scale.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>Living laboratories are being launched to accelerate development and adoption. </strong>As previously noted<a href="http://www.gpb.org/news/2012/06/21/georgia-techs-homelab-evaluates-products-for-the-elderly" target="_blank">, Georgia Tech</a>, <a href="http://munews.missouri.edu/news-releases/2012/0614-mu-researchers-use-sensor-technologies-to-remotely-monitor-aging-adults%E2%80%99-health/" target="_blank">U of Missouri</a>, <a href="http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2012/agelab-living-mobility-laboratory.html" target="_blank">MIT</a>, and others are creating/building living laboratories that will help in accelerating development and adoption of technology to help older adults.  And multiple other programs are regularly conducting research on the efficacy of <a href="http://insideoregon.uoregon.edu/content/stanford-look-new-roles-older-citizens-aging-america-0" target="_blank">technology such as Internet use on issues like social isolation</a> and depression in the old.</p>
<p><strong>But what is the target date for technology adoption? </strong>Over the past four years, numerous initiatives, not unlike the current wave, were <a href="http://www.ageinplacetech.com/blog/disconnect-between-university-research-and-go-market-product-viability">launched</a> and <a href="http://www.utsandiego.com/uniontrib/20081023/news_1n23elderly.html" target="_blank">abandoned</a> and new ones are <a href="http://heracleia.uta.edu/project.html" target="_blank">underway</a>.  But these statements are still true: end-user technology for seniors such as sensor-based monitoring or communication-engagement – these are still under-adopted in senior housing &#8212; see <a href="http://www.alfa.org/alfa/2012_Best_of_the_Best_Award_Winners.asp" target="_blank">ALFA’s Best of the Best awards</a> &#8211; home care, and generally not sold in retail settings.   How do I know this? From the vendors themselves who are still rooted in pilots, small deployments, RFPs, and the category of ‘emerging’. Meanwhile, healthcare, Alzheimer’s care, and deployment of electronic medical records have grabbed budget and attention in senior housing – and home care organizations are just starting to consider evaluation and future deployment.</p>
<p><strong>Who will buy and what is preventing broad-based adoption now?  </strong>I am reminded of the plaintive song in Oliver, <a href="http://www.metrolyrics.com/who-will-buy-lyrics-oliver.html" target="_blank">Who Will Buy?</a>  But we’re not talking about sweet red roses, we are talking tech for the 5 million seniors over the age of 85 who are likely NOT in the above pilots.  We are talking <a href="http://www.pewinternet.org/%7E/media/Files/Reports/2012/PIP_Older_adults_and_internet_use.pdf" target="_blank">about Pew’s survey</a> showing that 47% of those aged 65+ are not online, 66% of seniors age 75+ are not online, and 79% of those age 75+ do not have broadband in the home, a really good reason for not being online. What do you bet that those who could most benefit from the efforts to accelerate development and adoption have no idea that this work is underway and no good way to find out?  If the broadband, Internet adoption numbers of the older age groups were higher, perhaps user interest, willingness to buy, and barriers to adoption would be an obvious short list that vendors and their champions could easily overcome. So where is the overarching program to pull all of this great work together into a single national strategy, close the gaps in access, and really accelerate adoption of useful tech for a population that could benefit?</p>
<p><strong>****</strong></p>
<p><strong>Related articles:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/does-todays-tech-alienate-the-elderly/">Does today&#8217;s tech alienate the elderly?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/smart-technology-eases-aging-in-place/">Smart technology eases aging in place</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/seven-questions-before-buying-software-for-seniors/">Seven questions to ask before buying software for seniors</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1></h1>
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		<title>Are You Working with the Aging-at-Home Movement—or Against It?</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/are-you-working-with-the-aging-at-home-movement-or-against-it-319/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/are-you-working-with-the-aging-at-home-movement-or-against-it-319/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jul 2012 05:40:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kathy Barthel</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Marketing and Communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aging at home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aging in place]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[industry trends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lifelong communities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marketing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[urban]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=3193</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How are you working with the aging-at-home movement? Are you collaborating with boomers and seniors who are staying in their homes or are you in denial?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How is your retirement community working with the aging-at-home movement?</p>
<p>Are you collaborating with the hundreds of thousands of boomers and seniors who want to stay in their homes rather than move to a retirement community? Or are you resisting them?</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3202" title="S" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Asian-grandma-granddaughter-computer-598-x-2981.jpg" alt="" width="598" height="298" /></p>
<p><strong>Two sides of the same coin</strong></p>
<p>The aging-at-home movement and the current retirement residence living model are two sides of the same coin; they are not mutually exclusive. If the retirement residence industry perceives them as such, it will be sabotaging itself because the aging-at-home movement is the zeitgeist. It is the spirit of the times for many reasons and to work against it rather than with it would be a mistake.</p>
<p><strong>Lifelong Communities</strong></p>
<p>How can you do so? The <a href="http://lsega.com/uploads/Lifelong_Communities_Section.pdf" target="_blank">Lifelong Communities concept </a>integrates today’s model of suburban retirement home into suburban redevelopments so that it is part of a range of housing options for older adults. <a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/revera-acquires-comcare/" class="broken_link">Revera’s acquisition of Comcare</a> provides medical care and resources to seniors still living at home while building a relationship of trust with these future residents. The <a href="http://www.matherlifeways.com/" target="_blank">Mather Lifeways Café </a>model in the United States is a restaurant attached to retirement residences that provides great food plus many recreational programs including language classes, Pilates and digital photography. It attracts 50+ adults and increases residence reach into the local community.</p>
<p><strong>Hitchin&#8217; a ride</strong></p>
<p>Another way to reach out is in the area of transit. Many boomers and seniors don’t want to live in suburban, all-inclusive residences where they’d feel stranded and dependent on your shuttle bus to take them to specific off-site events. Collaborate with transit companies and develop a system that makes residents independently mobile so they can go wherever they choose. Extend this transit program to assist seniors still living at home and they will remember you when it&#8217;s time to move.</p>
<p>There are as many options as your imagination and seniors’ needs can inspire. And there’s no time like now to get started!</p>
<p><strong>****</strong></p>
<p><strong>Related articles:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/understand-prospects-psyches-convert-them-residents/">Understand your prospects&#8217; psyches to turn them into residents</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-build-authentic-relationships-with-boomers-and-seniors-2587/">How to build authentic relationships with boomers and seniors</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/hire-sales-pro-retirement-residence/">Hire a sales pro: Who is selling your residence?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/oacao-conference-aging-issues-for-lgbt-seniors-2263/">Aging issues for LGBT seniors</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>WEBINAR: How to get editorial coverage with Comfort Life</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-get-editorial-coverage-with-comfort-life-2725/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-get-editorial-coverage-with-comfort-life-2725/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jun 2012 19:44:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Webinars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Comfort Life TV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook and retirement homes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[social media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[webinar]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=2725</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Comfort Life is more than editorial; it’s connecting to seniors and boomers on social media including blogs, Facebook, Twitter and Comfort Life TV! Here’s how to get involved.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Comfort Life is more than just editorial. When you list with us, you have access to a wealth of content-sharing opportunities and consumer touch points.  Participating with Comfort Life across all of our communication channels puts you in a great position for magazine editorial.</strong></p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2732" title="CL12-Getting-Editorial-Coverage-In-ComfortLife 598 x 298" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CL12-Getting-Editorial-Coverage-In-ComfortLife-598-x-298.jpg" alt="" width="598" height="298" /></p>
<p><strong>Find out the where, how and why of sharing content with us:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>The types of communication channels that Comfort Life maintains, and the purpose of each one</li>
<li>What’s a blog?  Why should you blog?  How to create great content, and how to contribute regular articles to the<a href="http://www.ourkids.net/blog"> Comfort Life Daily blog</a></li>
<li>The ins and outs of press releases and getting coverage in the <a href="http://www.ourkidsmedia.com/newsletter.php">Comfort Life e-newsletter</a></li>
<li>Ways to amplify your message through the Comfort Life <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ourkidsnet">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ourkidsnet">Facebook</a> accounts</li>
<li>How to be considered for a segment on <a href="http://ourkids.net/tv/">Comfort Life TV</a></li>
<li>How to involve your residents and their families and turn them into your social media ambassadors</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Some of the questions answered in the session:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>What kinds of things do you put on your YouTube channel?  How do we submit?</li>
<li>We put all kinds of content on our <a href="http://www.youtube.com/ourkidsnet">YouTube channel</a>. You can submit your ideas for videos to the multimedia manager at <a href="mailto:multimedia@ourkids.net">multimedia@ourkids.net</a>. We’d also love to see your videos and we may consider them for sharing on our social properties, such at the YouTube channel, Facebook or Twitter.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Are press releases only for the newsletter?</strong></p>
<p>We love getting your press releases. Yes, we may use the information in our e-newsletter. We might also share your events and news on our Facebook page, Twitter, our blog, or even on Comfort Life TV.</p>
<p><strong>When is the deadline to contribute content for the <a href="http://www.ourkids.net/school2011">Comfort Life magazine</a>?</strong></p>
<p>We collect posts, events and articles throughout the year, and then pick the best of the best. We look for pieces that inspire, resonate, and touch our community. The best way to contribute content for the magazine is to share with us throughout the year.</p>
<p><strong>How do you quickly and easily get people to join you on Twitter?</strong></p>
<p>We’ll be holding more in-depth seminars on individual social media channels in the near future. But, in short, to build a community, follow people and then talk to them. Twitter isn’t just about sending links—it’s about engaging with your audience.</p>
<p><strong>Who do we send press releases to? And is there a fee?</strong></p>
<p>There’s no fee to send a press release. Just email them to <a href="mailto:editor@ourkids.net">editor@comfortlife.ca</a></p>
<p><strong>Who do I contact for blog posts? And is there a fee?</strong></p>
<p>There’s no fee to submit a blog post. Just email a short summary of your post or idea to <a href="mailto:editor@ourkids.net">editor@</a><a href="http://comfortlife.ca/">comfortlife.ca</a>.  We take individual posts, or requests for regular columns. We prefer original content, but if you’ve got a fantastic article you’ve already posted on your own blog, we would love to see it and possibly use it in a rewritten format so it’s not the same article.</p>
<p><strong>Do you or any other residences or organizations feel there are certain advantages to the types of social media (e.g., Facebook vs. Twitter or Google+)?</strong></p>
<p>Each social media channel has its own uses and benefits. Twitter is great for talking with and engaging with individual people or companies and for building personal relationships. Facebook is fabulous for sharing content, asking questions, and driving traffic to your website.  <a href="https://plus.google.com/109668490391476495812/posts">Google+</a> is almost a necessity for raising your Google search rank.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the Webinar to learn more:</strong><br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/44677167" frameborder="0" width="500" height="375"></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Related:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-optimize-your-comfort-life-profile-photos-stories-social-and-search-2569/">WEBINAR: How to optimize your Comfort Life profile: Photos, stories, social and search</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/webinar-how-to-get-media-attention-for-your-retirement-community-2330/">WEBINAR: How to get media attention for your retirement community</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-get-social-on-social-media-2634/">How to get social on social media</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/10-reasons-you-should-be-blogging-right-now/">Ten reasons you should be blogging right now</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/search-engine-optimization-seo-tips-retirement-communities/" class="broken_link">Search Engine Optimization (SEO) tips for retirement residences</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>How to &#8216;get social&#8217; on social media</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-get-social-on-social-media-2634/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-get-social-on-social-media-2634/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 May 2012 01:19:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kathy Barthel</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Marketing and Communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marketing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales and marketing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[social media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[social media marketing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=2634</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Getting social on social media is all about talking to your customers and having an authentic conversation day after day. Here's how it works.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Last month I attended the seventh annual Tweetstock conference on social media held in Wayne Gretzky&#8217;s charming home town of Brantford, Ontario. Originally conceived as a way to bring business to the city, this event has grown to become one of the most important forums for social media discussion and information exchange in Ontario. This year&#8217;s event featured many great speakers. Two in particular that I would recommend are &#8220;The Sales Lion&#8221;  <a title="Marcus Sheridan" href="http://www.thesaleslion.com/">Marcus Sheridan</a> and Scott Stratten of &#8220;<a title="Unmarketing" href="http://www.unmarketing.com/">Unmarketing&#8221;</a> fame.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2666" title="Thumbs Up Like Button" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Facebook-LIKE-598-x-298.jpg" alt="" width="598" height="298" /></p>
<p>Here are a few of my biggest takeaways from the conference that I&#8217;d like to share with you:</p>
<p><strong>It’s just talking to your customers</strong></p>
<p>Speakers expressed frustration at sales and marketing people who resist becoming part of the conversation on social media. You talk to your customers in person; social media is just another place to have that conversation. It’s also where your customers <em>are</em>.</p>
<p><strong>How do I talk to people on social media?</strong></p>
<p><a title="talking to people" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/report-engaging-facebook-fans-attracts-friends-of-fans/">Talking to people</a> on social is like having them sit and chat with you in your livingroom. It’s just an ‘amplified’ livingroom where you’re getting to know each other. Think casual, comfortable and real.</p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>What do I talk about?</strong></p>
<p>The common questions <a title="families" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/do-retirement-home-communities-need-a-social-media-strategy/">families</a> ask you will provide many topics. What do they ask you on tours? What do they call up and ask most often? Offer content people are searching for; be the solution to their problems.</p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>Be authentic and respond</strong></p>
<p>To engage and convert followers speak like a real person, not a brand. Be authentic and always answer tweets and comments. Once you begin to engage on social media you must continue the conversation. If someone asked you a question in person would you ignore them and not respond? Of course not; it&#8217;s exactly the same on social media. Rude is rude.</p>
<p><strong>One platform at a time</strong></p>
<p>Choose one platform such as Facebook and become great at it before branching out. Don&#8217;t feel that you must be everywhere at once.  But, be sure the platform you choose  is where your community of<a title="boomers" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/10-ways-to-market-to-boomers-2129/"> boomers</a> and seniors actually is; if they&#8217;re on Facebook then that&#8217;s where you should be but if they&#8217;re on Twitter, be there.</p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>Address problems straight on and neutralize them</strong></p>
<p>If a problem appears, acknowledge it right away and provide solutions.  Don&#8217;t avoid issues, get out in front of them immediately. Your community will appreciate it and you will gain their trust. Remember, credibility and transparency are key.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <strong>****</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Related articles:</strong></p>
<p><a title="online and social media marketing for retirement homes" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/online-social-media-marketing-retirement-homes-2201/"> Online and social media marketing for retirement homes</a></p>
<p><a title="What works in advertising for retirement residences" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/what-works-in-advertising-for-retirement-residences/">Webinar: What works in advertising for retirement residences</a></p>
<p><a title="How to build authentic relationships with boomers and seniors" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-build-authentic-relationships-with-boomers-and-seniors-2587/">How to build authentic relationships with boomers and seniors</a></p>
<p><a title="ten reasons you should be blogging right now" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/10-reasons-you-should-be-blogging-right-now/">Ten reasons you should be blogging right now</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Are you communicating with boomers and seniors on Facebook or other social media? How&#8217;s it going? Share your experience with a comment below. </strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Eight ways to optimize your Comfort Life profile</title>
		<link>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/eight-ways-to-optimize-your-comfort-life-profile-2611/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dialogueplus.ca/eight-ways-to-optimize-your-comfort-life-profile-2611/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:20:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Marketing and Communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Webinars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boomers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Comfort Life profile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marketing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marketing and communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prospects]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seniors]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dialogueplus.ca/?p=2611</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Your Comfort Life profile will help bring prospects to your door if you take full advantage of what it offers. Here’s what to do.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Here&#8217;s what you should know to harness the full capabilities of your Comfort Life purchase. Plus some tips on increasing your Google ranking.</em></p>
<p>For a webinar on the same topic, click <a title="here" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/how-to-optimize-your-comfort-life-profile-photos-stories-social-and-search-2569/">here</a></p>
<p>You’ve just joined the Comfort Life network, and are eager to start seeing the results. Whatever path you took to get here, your goal now is to get the most from your investment.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2620" title="Seniors and rubber bands 2010-amica whitby -_MG_7328 598 x 298" src="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Seniors-and-rubber-bands-2010-amica-whitby-_MG_7328-598-x-298.jpg" alt="" width="598" height="298" /></p>
<p><strong>Here are eight tips and some simple action steps, to substantially increase your return on investment:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1.  The “Dashboard” lets you easily track your online profile, and quickly see how you can further enhance the listing.</strong><br />
The Dashboard can be found in the “Control Panel”, through which you submitted your print listing for the magazine. The link, username, and password were emailed to you when you signed up. Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the Dashboard and the Control Panel; from here you will be updating your profile throughout the year. If you have a baseline level of confidence with the panel, you are more likely to actually use it later.</p>
<p><strong>2.  The more you tell, the more you sell. We find listings that are properly filled out have higher conversions.</strong><br />
So long as it’s well organized, prospects want as much information as possible about your community. Make sure you take advantage of the enhanced “profile” section of your online listing, which allows 1,360 characters in the Community Description instead of 580 (as in the magazine). Moreover, there is space for details on the suites, the community, prices, programs and activities, residence services, special diets (if any), doctors and nurses (if applicable), and so on.</p>
<p><strong>3.  Further to point #2, the more details you have identified in your profile, the more frequently you’ll be displayed in Comfort Life search results.</strong><br />
As users select variables in the advanced search (for example, having a nurse on staff), you will show up in the results only if you have identified those variables as applying to your community.</p>
<p><strong>4.  Comfort Life profiles with photos have an 8x higher conversion rate than those that don’t.</strong><br />
So make sure to upload photos to the unlimited photo gallery. Include photos of your suites, floor plans, amenities you want to highlight, and your residents enjoying themselves. (NOTE: contact <a title="Comfort Life" href="http://www.comfortlife.ca/">Comfort Life</a> if you’d like help uploading photos).</p>
<p><strong>SEO TIP:</strong> For SEO optimization, make sure to reference your community name in the caption or title of your photos, and provide a detailed description of the image.</p>
<p><strong>5.  Photos with people in them are often more engaging than photos of things.</strong><br />
Direct mail advertising pros know this: it’s very hard to ignore a picture of a person. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t upload that great shot of the model suite you have on file, but it should at least make you think twice if the suite is empty. Remember, though it sounds cliché, you’re not selling amenities and suites, you’re selling an experience. If we really accept this premise, it naturally follows that your photos should have an <em>experiencing subject</em> (person) in them. Objects – lap pools and comfy chairs &#8212; can’t experience themselves, but people can experience them.</p>
<p><strong>6.  Prospects actually read the “Stories and Testimonials” section of Comfort Life listings.</strong><br />
So it makes little sense to leave yours blank. Once you have the attention of a prospect, you want to give them as much informative content as possible. Engaged prospects are more likely to click through to your website, send you an email, give you a call, or lock you in their minds for future consideration. This is stating the obvious, but sometimes it helps us to meditate on the obvious. (NOTE: Make sure to fill in the “Keywords” box when uploading stories/testimonials, so your entry will be found when users are searching Comfort Life for those keywords.)<br />
<strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEO TIP:</strong> Include in every story/testimonial a link back to your website. These “backlinks” from high traffic sites like Comfort Life increases the “importance” of your website in the eyes (or silicon chips) of search engines, thus increasing your ranking in search results. (NOTE: contact Comfort Life if you’d like help creating a link.)</p>
<p><strong>7.  Populating your community Events Calendar keeps your listing fresh, encourages attendance to your events, and brands your community in the main Events Calendar on Comfort Life.</strong><br />
You can update your events calendar year-round. If an event you post is interesting and relevant enough, we may even tweet about it or post a message to our <a title="Comfort Life social networks" href="https://www.facebook.com/ComfortLife.ca">Comfort Life social networks.</a></p>
<p><strong>8.  Your Comfort Life online profile links directly to your social media networks</strong><br />
You have to make the link, though! This can be done, like everything else in this article, through the Control Panel. If you’ve given the prospect enough content to really engage them, they may choose to connect with your community through social media (following you, becoming a fan, or starting a conversation).</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>****</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Related articles:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a title="Understand your prospects psyches to convert them into residents" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/understand-prospects-psyches-convert-them-residents/">Understand your prospects psyches to convert them into residents</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a title="WEBINAR: Marketing tips for retirement communities" href="http://www.dialogueplus.ca/marketing-tips-retirement-homes-communities/" class="broken_link">WEBINAR: Marketing tips for retirement communities</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
<p style="text-align: left;">
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