Communication Technology Improves Staff, Resident, and Family Interactions in Skilled Nursing Homes Post COVID-19 Restrictions

Infection control measures taken by long-term care facilities (LTCs) during COVID-19, such as restricting outside visitors, exacerbated experiences of social isolation among residents.1 Family caregivers played a crucial role in supporting residents’ physical, emotional, and mental health amidst the restrictions.2 As such, communication technology that could foster connections with family caregivers became essential.3 However, incorporating communication technology into clinical settings has been challenging due to several barriers, such as the high cost of devices and internet services, and technologies that are often not user-friendly for residents.