Alzheimer’s Association Project VITAL: A Florida statewide initiative using technology to impact social isolation and well-being

Lack of social engagement and the resulting social isolation can have negative impacts on health and well-being, especially in senior care communities and for those living with dementia. Project VITAL leverages technology and community resources to create a network for connection, engagement, education, and support of individuals with dementia and their caregivers, and explores the impact of these interventions in reducing feelings of social isolation and increasing mood among residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through two phases, personalized Wi-Fi-enabled iN2L tablets were distributed to 300 senior care communities to connect and engage residents and their families. Tablet usage was collected over an 11-month period and an interim survey was designed to assess the effectiveness of the tablets, in preventing social isolation and increasing mood among residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Outcomes

• iN2L tablets were useful in improving loneliness and mood in residents

• Tablets were shown to be an effective way to engage residents and connect them with friends and family, as well as being a useful tool for staff members