Avoid frustration and ensure smooth operations for your managers and staff. WiFi connectivity is one of the most common tech issues in care homes, especially when it affects care planning devices, eMAR systems, and internet access for staff. Poor WiFi can lead to delays in updating records, interrupted workflows, and unnecessary stress for care teams. H2O Networks‘ Adam Abrahami (pictured) shares four essential tips to keep your care home’s WiFi running smoothly…
1. Ensure Full WiFi Coverage Across the Building
If certain areas of your care home have weak or no WiFi signal, critical devices such as care planning tablets and eMAR systems may lose connection, causing delays in updating records. This is particularly problematic in resident rooms or less accessible areas.
✅ Solution: Invest in additional WiFi access points and run network cables to weak spots. Avoid using WiFi extenders, as they often cause more issues than they solve. A professionally designed network with wired access points ensures stable and seamless connectivity.
2. Address Slow Internet Speeds
If your internet feels sluggish, it may be due to high demand from multiple devices—such as smart TVs, music systems, and resident entertainment services—competing for bandwidth.
✅ Solution: Speak to your internet provider or IT team to assess whether your current bandwidth is sufficient. A simple network report can help determine if an upgrade is necessary to prevent slow speeds from impacting care operations.
3. Upgrade to the Fastest Internet Available
Internet speeds vary depending on your care home’s location. If you are in an area with slow broadband, your options may be limited.
✅ Solution:
Consider a leased line, which provides a dedicated, high-speed connection (100–1000 Mbps). While these start at around £250 per month, they ensure guaranteed speed and reliability.
If a leased line is not an option, satellite internet is an affordable alternative, offering speeds of up to 200 Mbps for around £75 per month.
4. Upgrade or Reposition Your Wireless Access Points
Older or poorly placed wireless access points (WAPs) can limit connectivity and slow down devices. If your WAPs are more than five years old, they may not support the latest technology required for efficient care planning and staff communication.
✅ Solution: Upgrade to modern WiFi 7 access points, which provide faster speeds and better coverage with fewer devices. Proper positioning is also key—consult an IT professional to optimise placement for maximum efficiency.
Need Help with Poor WiFi in Your Care Home?
If you’re experiencing WiFi issues in your care home, Adam Abrahami can help. With extensive experience in advising care providers on IT solutions, Adam can assess your current setup and recommend the best ways to improve connectivity.
Contact Adam from H2o Networks to discuss your WiFi challenges and find a tailored solution that works for your care home. Adam regularly is invited to speak at Industry Events, The Care Show, Caring Times and works with the Bondcare Group, Care World Wide and the Jawa Group.
