Last updated on June 15th, 2023
In the past two decades, technology has evolved from large, clunky devices to smaller, thinner, and more capable ones. Think back to 2007, when the first iPhone was released. It was 3.5”, featured the biggest touch screen on the market, and was unlike anything the average person had seen before. The world was shocked at what it could do. Now, this original version is considered archaic. This is just one example of many that show how quickly technology can evolve.
The food service industry has embraced the fast-paced changes of the tech world, using the latest innovations to help make the dining experience more enjoyable and less of a hassle. In senior living communities, technologies like apps, self-service kiosks, or even robots, are making food service operations more efficient.
What technologies are senior living communities using to improve food service?
Amongst the vast amount of technological advances in recent history, here are a few that senior living food service professionals are using the most.
Self-Service Kiosks
Using interactive kiosks and digital signage in high-traffic areas is a great way to utilize technology as a form of communication in senior living communities. Self-service kiosks can be used to display menus, take orders, and other food service-related tasks that can improve efficiency and enable your community to offer a better resident experience. Point-of-sale software can now connect to personalized care data allowing you to serve residents at any location while still ensuring that diet orders, allergies, and special needs are met.
Digital kiosks can also be used to increase engagement among seniors. Some senior communities offer kiosks that feature games or puzzles that may improve memory. More specifically to food service, self-service kiosks are a great way for dietitians or other providers to collect important nutrition and health-related information from residents. For instance, at Culinary Services Group, we’ve used touch-screen kiosks for resident satisfaction surveys. The kiosks weren’t complex to use and were placed in convenient locations so residents could easily access them and they could be easily cleaned.
Robotics
Having a helping hand around the kitchen is always beneficial. But what if that helper was a robot? Last year, CSG piloted a program using robots as “food runners” in select senior communities. Not only did the robots’ presence provide a fun conversation starter with residents, but it also helped with task delegation among staff. While these helpers haven’t become a standard part of our packages yet, it’s a possibility for the future.
Robots and their cost-effectiveness also allow senior living communities to pay their workers a higher wage. It’s no secret that higher pay is key to achieving higher employee satisfaction, reducing turnover, and lowering the risk of burnout. And when your employees are excited and motivated to do their job, residents notice.
Some critics are concerned that using robotics may impact the workforce in a negative way, which is a legitimate factor to worry about. That doesn’t mean that automation or robotics will have negative consequences for the businesses that use them. In fact, the impact is quite the opposite. By automating portions of food manufacturing like production and packaging, costs can decrease — making it more efficient for food service manufacturers to offer a more diverse and enticing menu.
Mobile Apps
Getting a take-out order from a restaurant has always been a popular option for people who want to enjoy their food at home. Online delivery platforms have made this even more accessible, bringing your favorite meals directly to your door. While seniors aren’t the largest group using these services, the numbers are growing. The ability to have food delivered makes it more convenient for older adults who have trouble with mobility, making it hard for them to go the grocery store or drive to a restaurant.
Senior living communities began taking advantage of mobile apps during the pandemic when going out in public wasn’t a safe option for older adults. Apps like InstaCart, Doordash, and Grub Hub were lifesavers when most communities were secluded from the outside world.
Apps can also help senior living staff in a more customized way. Instead of posting the menu for the day on a community bulletin board, residents can access it on the community’s app from wherever they are in the building. Apps used for food ordering can even add features like nutrition summaries and nutrition notifications during the ordering process to help encourage more balanced nutrition among residents. Mobile apps are also great for sharing menu information with resident families and visitors.
Helping Residents Adjust to New Technology
Seniors aren’t known for being the most tech-savvy group. However, as technology has evolved, that’s becoming a myth. A 2021 study by Pew Research Center found that, compared to a decade ago, adults 65+ are using technology now more than ever. This includes owning a smart device like a tablet or smartphone and using social media. Another study found that all generations of older adults regularly use information and communication technologies (ICT), even the oldest group (80+), to text, video chat, or digitally connect with friends and family.
Integrating new technology like robotics and mobile apps into senior living communities can be challenging for residents that aren’t as up-to-date on their tech skills, but it doesn’t have to be. As things like self-service kiosks and mobile apps become more commonplace in senior living communities, the Culinary Services Group team strives to incorporate user-friendly technology into our meal programs. Our support team is always ready to help with questions, concerns, or problems with any component of our food service management program.
Are you interested in learning more about what types of technology we offer? Contact us today to connect with our team.
