Press Release: Parker Health Group Inc. Teams Up with AARP Foundation to Combat Social Isolation
(Piscataway, NJ) – Parker Health Group Inc. (parkerlife.org) has provided a grant of $170,000 to AARP Foundation to implement Connect2Affect Connected Communities in 13 New Jersey affordable senior housing buildings, serving more than 1,000 residents across 11 counties.
AARP Foundation Connect2Affect Connected Communities is a comprehensive solution designed to connect older adults to their affordable senior housing communities and to each other by making it easy to get community information using just their voice. The program works with affordable senior housing providers to equip their communities with voice-activated devices, tools, and training that help residents maintain the social connections they need to remain independent and age in place longer. Older adults can hear what programs and activities are coming up, community news, or find out if the mail has been delivered, just by using their voice. They can also use the smart speakers for music, news, weather, and other applications suited to their individual interests.
Social isolation can have a negative effect on someone’s mental and physical health, and older adults are especially vulnerable during this time when social distancing is in place. Connect2Affect Connected Communities is a way to help seniors stay connected and socially engaged. Voice is a user-friendly technology that reaches across all ages and abilities.