QUINCY, Mass., Sept. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Rhode Island has traditionally been among states with the highest percentage of senior citizens, ranking ninth in the United States for citizens older than 65 according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Now, some of these seniors will have access to personalized computer training to get connected to the digital world. Senior living provider Brookdale and ConnectedLiving® today announced the launch of ConnectedLiving at all nine BSL communities spanning all regions of the Ocean State.

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The award-winning ConnectedLiving program helps residents at Brookdale communities get online using a secure, easy-to-use cloud-based social network, coupled with customized training and support that teaches seniors how to use the technology, and also provides ongoing support that helps them to stay connected for the long-term.

ConnectedLiving's platform includes an interface, providing secure access to the Internet, email, photos, a library, games, and social media tools such as video chat. This technology, coupled with classes, programming, and on-site support ensures adoption and sustained usage. Using the ConnectedLiving Network (CLN), Brookdale residents gain new computer skills, enjoy more frequent communication with family and friends, and benefit from the health advantages that come from increased social activity. In addition, residents' family members are able to access the CLN from anywhere to communicate directly with their loved one and view dining menus, calendars, photo galleries and more.

"At Brookdale, we work hard to enrich the lives of those who reside in our communities.  With that commitment in mind, we provide not only access to technology, but unique, personalized training through ConnectedLiving at all of our communities in Rhode Island and many more across the country," said Sara Terry, Vice President of Customer Experience at Brookdale. "This model, which combines technology, onsite training and support, empowers our residents to lead more purposeful lives."

The ConnectedLiving program is or soon will be available at all Brookdale communities in Rhode Island:

"It's a misconception that the older generation has no use for technology," said Sarah Hoit, CEO and co-founder of ConnectedLiving.  "When you present new opportunities for communicating with grandchildren, and walk people through, for example, online registration for Medicare benefits in our paperless society, individuals with a lifetime of experience become very engaged.  That's what ConnectedLiving provides."

About ConnectedLivingFounded in 2007, ConnectedLiving® is helping senior citizens live richer, more connected lives by combining simplified technology with high-touch personal support. Through the award-winning ConnectedLiving Network, a Web-based social platform designed specifically for the senior living industry, the company brings together seniors, their families, and community administrators in a secure, private online community. Coupled with the company's unique approach to training and support, ConnectedLiving integrates social networking, distance learning, community menus and calendars, and an extensive administrator dashboard to help get entire communities online and connected. ConnectedLiving has been adopted by the most recognized thought-leaders in both the private senior living industry and the public housing authorities across the country. www.connectedliving.com.

About BrookdaleBrookdale is a leading owner and operator of senior living communities throughout the United States. The Company is committed to providing an exceptional living experience through properties that are designed, purpose-built and operated to provide the highest-quality service, care and living accommodations for residents. Currently the Company operates independent living, assisted living, and dementia-care communities and continuing care retirement centers, with more than 650 communities in 36 states and the ability to serve over 67,000 residents. www.brookdale.com.

SOURCE Brookdale

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