Why use VitalLink?
For many older adults, an unfortunate consequence of the aging process is the extent to which they may become both physically marginalized and socially disenfranchised. Clearly, increasing frailty, limited mobility and the trend for younger family members to relocate away from their aging parents each contribute to the social isolation experienced by many elderly. The significant outcome of this trend, however, is not just the isolation experienced by many older adults, but the profound consequence this isolation may have upon the aging experience - manifested by declines in both physical and cognitive well-being.
What is VitalLink?
VitalLink provides an innovative, internet based solution to this social isolation. Housed within a commercially available touch screen computer, VitalLink marries evolving video and phone technology with specially developed software that enables "face to face" social interaction at the touch of a button - or in this case, at the touch of an icon on a computer screen.
What makes VitalLink Unique?
What is unique about VitalLink is that it presents a solution to the current complexity of both the computer and the internet, enabling even the least sophisticated older adult to utilize the internet to remain socially connected - face to face connected with those central to their quality of life. Imagine, at the click of a mouse or the touch of an icon, the computer challenged, socially disenfranchised older user will be able to see and interact, real time, with friends, family and growing grandchildren around the globe.
How does VitalLink work?
VitalLink is software that is installed on the elder's computer that becomes the primary interface for the elder. Adult children, other family members, or community volunteers and independent living support services, use the VitalLink Web Console to remotely perform all necessary software set-up and configuration. They can even remotely take over the system to show the elder web-pages, research doctors, schedule appointments, or order products and services. All the elder needs to know is how to push the power button and to be able to touch big high contrast "buttons" on the screen to make or receive calls.
