Staying Connected : The Free Stayhome-Living App
Barry Jones & Carolyn Glazier | Founders , Stayhome-Living
During the early days of the pandemic , it became apparent that many older adults were struggling with loneliness . After years in communities , in careers , and with family establishing lifelong relationships , we were suddenly told we needed to isolate and stick within our own household bubble . The larger the household , the less the risk of loneliness . But for many Canadian seniors living as a couple or alone , this imposed isolation was debilitating .
It was from this backdrop in spring of 2020 that we developed a platform to help older adults remain connected , entertained , and engaged . After surveying some 150 seniors within their community and asking about their experience with technology , frustrations with technology , and their wish list , we enlisted retired tech executive and restless senior , Tom Waters , to help develop a free app to help with seniors ’ digital literacy . Reaching out to content providers , we secured permission to add entertainment in the form of documentaries , cooking and travel shows , movies , and online TV offerings . They added options for physical and mental engagement through online exercise videos
( seated yoga , tai chi , light cardio ), games , and hobbies ( gardening videos , instructional knitting , book clubs ). Connection was made possible via social media channels and video calling options , all with instructional videos and step-by-step notes . Follow-up to the survey also led to a discussion about how technology might enable the respondents to stay in their homes longer ( the headlines of the day were not flattering to the Canadian long-term care system ). In response , we incorporated links ( and instructions ) for ordering and organizing groceries , meals , transport , some home repairs , and telehealth options .
The app is laid out as a house , safe and
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