New Project Will Connect Florida Seniors With Families Through Virtual Technology

Florida seniors living in assisted living facilities will soon be able to connect with their loved ones amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Governor DeSantis and Elder Affairs Secretary Richard Prudom announced on Wednesday morning the launch of Project: VITAL (Virtual Inclusive Technology for All), which utilizes virtual technology to relieve the difficult symptoms of social isolation for residents in Assisted Living Facilities and nursing homes, according to a press release.

Tablets will be distributed statewide to residents in order to bring families together virtually and help mitigate feelings of isolation.

“In order to protect our Florida residents especially our elders, from the dangers of COVID-19, we have enacted social distancing measures to keep people safe,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Project VITAL utilizes methods of personalized communication tools such as video call connections, online support tools, and customized applications to allow residents to continue connecting with their loved ones during these tough times though various virtual platforms.”

The project will be funded with resources received by the Department from federal coronavirus response efforts.

During the initial pilot phase, project leaders will work with 150 care communities and supply two tablets per community along with virtual training on how to use the equipment, platform, and applications as well as proper sanitization of each tablet from resident to resident.

For more information, please visit www.elderaffairs.org.