Impact of New Technologies on Assisted Living Facilities
Many individuals have a misleading perception of retirement homes, and haven’t considered how new technologies are impacting them. According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), 20% of the current population will be represented by older adults by 2050. Thus, it is worth noting that assisted living is a growing industry that will see increased efficiency in the coming years.
New Technologies
The assumption that senior adults can’t use technology is inaccurate and misleading. Due to the growing demand for senior living, increased technology use has been witnessed in the industry. According to a recent AARP report, 90% of individuals aged 50 and above use technology to keep in touch with their loved ones. The report adds that 80% of individuals aged between 50 and 64 use smartphones to communicate.
The following are some technology trends that assisted senior living are utilizing and how they have impacted their facilities.
Medical Alert Systems
Senior adults want their own space and prefer to live independently. Thus, medical alert systems play a significant role in monitoring their health and progress. For instance, when an accident happens or their health deteriorates, these systems enable them to call for assistance.
Medical alert systems are built with different designs. Some are in the form of mobile, smartphones, bracelets, or wearable items. Bracelets are the common designs of medical alert systems. They can support smartwatches and smartphones. Experts indicate that anything that is worn by a patient frequently could be a medical alert system.
These systems are designed such that they can monitor a patient’s sleeping habits and activity levels. Thus, caregivers in assisted living facilities Asheville NC, are better positioned to monitor a patient’s progress and are likely to know when senior adults are at risk of fatigue.
Additionally, medical alert systems are made with up-to-date technologies to incorporate additional services. For instance, some designs are integrated with GPS trackers and alert staff when patients have dementia.
Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
According to research by Pew Research Center, 90% of American Households have internet-accessible devices. Smart devices, such as smartphones, computers, smart homes, and smart computers, have increased household internet connectivity.
Assisted living facilities Asheville NC, can utilize the Internet of Things to improve older adults’ lives. For instance, certain devices contain sensors that inform caregivers when elders are up at night so that lighting can be adjusted accordingly. Additionally, products such as Google Home or Amazon Echo voice activation can be utilized for elders who use wheelchairs.
Statistics indicate that falls among elders is the leading cause of death. Thus, such advancements can be used to minimize such incidents while providing them a sense of control.
Software and Web-Based Programs
Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR) have currently replaced the traditional paper records used in registering patients and their diagnoses. Therefore, doctors can intervene in real-time with accurate records.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is one of the fastest-growing areas in the assisted living industry. It enables caregivers and individuals to have an in-depth analysis of the health of their patients. Also, it allows remote monitoring so that the doctor can stay updated on the patient’s care with few visits.
Access to patient’s information gives caregivers such as Silverbell Homestead a comprehensive look at their status and allows them to make informed decisions.
Bottom Line
It is projected that the consumption of technology goods will increase for Americans aged 50 and above by 2030. Thus, the senior care industry is set to record a booming growth due to the increased use of technology. Innovation and development of technology are set to improve services offered to the older population.