The pandemic highlighted the importance of reliable and high-speed internet connectivity that led to an increased demand for better Wi-Fi infrastructure and services at retirement communities. It makes sense for older adults who may have limited mobility and rely on the internet for social connections and entertainment. Some retirement communities also use Wi-Fi to offer additional services and amenities to their residents, such as remote health monitoring and virtual fitness classes.

It is safe to say that many retirement communities need to maximize Wi-Fi availability to residents and staff to optimize care and interaction. One solution that comes to mind to meet these needs is Cambium's ONE Network.

Fairmount Homes continuing care retirement community in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, sees a significant improvement in Wi-Fi user experience across its campus since deploying Cambium’s technology.

The campus, which includes two four-story apartment buildings, 53 standalone cottages, a personal care center and a healthcare center, sees a daily average of 448 unique devices using the network at an average rate of 400 terabytes per month, with the trend showing an increase of bits of 69% over the last 12 months. Trouble reports decreased from multiple calls per week to less than two calls per month – an 80% drop. The wireless network also securely supports pharmacy carts and Electronic Medical Records access, allowing staff to stay connected to the core network, dramatically increasing productivity and efficiency.

Fairmount Homes CEO Jerry Lile notes that five years ago, most of the residents moving in didn't care about Wi-Fi, but after the pandemic, Wi-Fi connectivity is one of the most frequently asked questions during the application process.

Potential residents demand Wi-Fi when they look for a place to live, and it is particularly important not only for the residents but also for their families and various guests. Wi-Fi is essential, and Fairmount Homes meet those needs because of Cambium’s technology.

The solution deployed at Fairmount Homes includes multiple components of Cambium's ONE Network. PMP 450i fixed wireless access points distribute broadband between buildings across the campus. The indoor Wi-Fi 6 access points provide coverage inside apartments and cottages. The cnMaestro, a cloud-based or on-premises software platform for secure, end-to-end network control, simplifies device management by offering full network visibility and zero touch provisioning.

Additionally, LINKPlanner and Wi-Fi Designer tools are used to plan the network. LINKPlanner provides “what if” scenarios for fixed wireless technologies – based on geography, distance, antenna height, transmit power and other factors – to optimize system performance before purchase. Wi-Fi Designer explains itself – design an effective Wi-Fi network that meets user demand.

As technology continues to play a larger role in the lives of older adults, the importance of reliable and high-speed internet connectivity in retirement communities is expected to grow. Cambium Networks (News - Alert)' deployment addresses the needs of properties such as Fairmount Homes that seek to deliver the online demands of their residents while reducing operating costs.