Like any business, senior living communities rely on the internet for communications and day-to-day operations. And it isn’t just the staff that needs fast, reliable, glitch-free internet. Today’s seniors are more tech-savvy than ever, and they are using the internet to shop, learn, explore their interests, and keep in touch with their families and friends. Your internet service is a key part of your community’s infrastructure–it’s essential to get it right!
Details of ISP contracts senior living providers should consider
Setting up the internet service provider (ISP) for a senior living community requires careful planning and consideration. Keep these factors in mind to keep the process running smoothly and avoid time-consuming and costly mistakes:
Bandwidth
You need to determine the amount of bandwidth required to provide internet services to the community. Consider factors such as the number of residents, the type of online activities they engage in, and the number of devices they use. Remember that your staff will be relying on the internet as well, and plan for their needs accordingly.
Hardware
Be sure your provider is using quality equipment. Your routers, switches, access points, and cables need to be able to handle the bandwidth requirements of your community.
Security
Your network must be secure and protected against cyber threats. Make sure robust firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software are all in place.
Accessibility
Internet services should be accessible to all residents of your senior living community, including those with disabilities. Features such as larger text, audio cues, and voice control will make your community’s internet services easier for seniors to use.
User support
You need to provide strong support to your residents in case of any issues with the internet services. There may be a wide range of comfort levels and familiarity with using the internet among your residents! Consider setting up a helpdesk, providing training on internet usage, and having a dedicated IT team to handle technical issues. Your administrative staff will appreciate a strong IT support team as well.
Cost
Cost is another important factor to consider when setting up and maintaining your senior living community’s internet services. You should weigh the costs of different
providers and equipment to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Budget
New senior living developments need to be sure to budget for construction and installation costs for their internet and cable infrastructure. When negotiating with providers, be sure and get firm costs so you can budget effectively.
Contract length
Understand the time frame for payments–will your ISP contract be 12 months, 36 months, etc.
Working with other providers
Will there be other providers setting up infrastructure on site? Cable and internet are most often provided by the same contractor, but some developments choose a different provider for phone service.
Phone provider considerations
If you’re using a different provider for phone, consider adding one phone line on a month-to-month contract from your internet provider in case there are any delays with the alternative provider.
Consider coaxial
Consider using coaxial cable for its ease of installation and lower cost.
Compliance
You need to comply with any legal requirements related to setting up an ISP, such as obtaining the necessary licenses and permits.
Overall, setting up an ISP for a senior living community requires careful consideration of all the factors listed above to be sure your residents have access to reliable, secure, and accessible internet services.
RSN Technologies ensures your IT system’s success, every step of the way
At RSN Technologies, IT for senior living communities is what we do. With twenty-five years in business, we have extensive experience with new developments and know exactly what’s required to successfully integrate your tech infrastructure into the development process. Contact us today to learn how we can partner with your senior living community!