Episode 10

Seeking technology that actually helps people living with memory loss with Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch Communities

In Episode Ten of the Caregiver Camp Podcast, host Debbie Howard speaks with a very passionate guest who has a long history of working with aged care residents, starting his journey as a caregiver first visiting his elderly neighbors as a young child and listening to their stories. These days, our guest, Benjamin Surmi is the Director of Education and Culture at Koelsch Communities, who provide senior care for over 2000 residents in 41 care communities across the western United States.

In the past two years, the pandemic has accelerated technology in all facets of our lives and age care residents have not been immune to the rapid pace. Benjamin shares what age technology Koelsch Communities have trialled with their residents and their learnings, including that the best tech innovations are the ones that make our physical and in-person relationships better, rather than replace them.

In this episode you will hear:

How Benjamin began his caregiver career in aged care at the tender age of seven and why it has become a lifelong passion
How age technology under-delivered before the pandemic and how it is now enhancing senior living
What a window visit is and how digital technology is helping residents to stay connected to their families in new ways
Technology innovations that have been tried and failed with aged care residents
Predictions for technology that will stick around post-pandemic
How age technology can support and enhance life for a resident with memory loss
How virtual reality can become a shared experience for age care residents and their families
The value and importance of Spotify music playlists for residents
Finding a balance between humanity and technology in caregiving
How companies can support employee caregivers with employee assistance programs and partnerships with senior care homes

About Benjamin:

Benjamin Surmi works with 2000 residents in about 41 care communities across the western United States in his role as Director of Education and Culture at Koelsch Communities. He holds a Master's degree in Gerontology from California State University at Fullerton. Benjamin is a passionate innovator in the area of memory care, in addition to designing the content and delivery of the orientation program for over 2000 employees. He also delivers educational and inspirational presentations to aging residents, their family members, and professionals, with a focus on improving how we support people living with dementia so they can thrive. Benjamin also manages partnerships with universities for cutting edge research, applying academic knowledge to everyday use situations

About Koelsch Communities

Family-owned and operated for 60 years, Koelsch Communities is committed to caring for senior citizens. Since 1958, they bring a legacy of excellence in Independent, Assisted Living, and Memory care throughout eight states across the United States. Aaron Koelsch, the President, was nurtured as a child in the skilled living environment, and with the same passion for excellence as his parents, has been a leader in the company for over 25 years.

Connect with Benjamin:

Website: https://koelschseniorcommunities.com/

Facebook: @KoelschCom

IG: https://www.instagram.com/koelschcommunities/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminsurmi/

Links to items mentioned in this episode:

Koelsch Innovation Labs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwer-r57sE4HeQziumTa0mdW-_nL6SzH4

Answers with Experts

A series in which caregivers ask experts challenging caregiving questions.

Text #answers to 1.360.526.6201 with your questions or challenges.

YouTube