'We don't even have Wi-Fi': a descriptive study exploring current use and availability of communication technologies in residential aged care

Abstract

Background: There has been significant growth in communication technologies. However, it is unknown to what extent RACFs accommodate such technologies.

Aim: To explore the use and availability of communication technologies for use by residents within RACFs in Queensland, Australia.

Methods: A descriptive, structured telephone survey. Every 10th alphabetically listed facility from a total sample of n = 462 were telephoned and staff were invited to complete the survey.

Results: Forty-one out of a total of 93 RACFs completed the survey. The telephone was by far the primary form of communication used by residents to communicate with family and friends (n = 40; 97.6%). Conversely, the use of web-connection communication software (Skype or similar) was uncommon.

Conclusion: The use and availability of communication technologies is limited within RACFs, highlighting a significant lag in the uptake within the sector.