A new Canadian-designed messaging platform offers older adults an easier way to stay in contact with family and friends.
A public beta version that can be used by seniors and their families wherever they live was released last month this week at the AGE-WELL Annual Conference in Moncton.
Co-founder and chief technology officer at Famlinet Communications Inc. Robert Arn says their goal is to help seniors who have little computer knowledge or sensory issues.
“It is very difficult for them to communicate the way everyone else does, and yet communication by digital technology is the core of how we life now,” he said.
“For many seniors, there is a fear and embarrassment, because they’re not used to technology. Some seniors have mild to serious visual problems and issues with hearing. They also have hidden things like motor coordination concerns and tremors so they can’t use things like a cell phone.”
Arn says the platform makes it easy to send voice, text or video messages and photographs, using easy icons to access contacts and messaging.
Those with poor vision can also have texts read aloud.
“Being isolated and not having connection with those people close to your life is serious. The connection is important for health and longevity and quality of life,” Arn said.
FamliNet works on any device that runs a web browser and will soon be available for iOS mobile devices.
It can be accessed online and runs without downloads or installation complications. There is no cost until January 2020, when a monthly fee will be introduced.
