How Can Technology Help Improve Elder Care?

The use of smart, internet-powered devices is becoming the way of life among the young and old alike. For the elderly, advanced technology and smart devices make everyday tasks easier. It also improves their overall quality of life. Technologies like wearables, implants, cameras, GPS, and smartphones allow seniors to be free and more independent. So, how can technology help improve elder care?

Today, companies are coming up with vast care options to cater to the growing elderly population. In 2019, about 16.5% of the US population was 65 or older, and the number is set to reach 22% by 2050, according to Statista.

According to Pew research, of seniors 65 years or more:

Understanding technology

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Seniors are more connected to technology than they ever have been before.

Technology involves the use of using scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. It draws upon such subjects as applied science, pure science, engineering, and industrial arts. In senior care, technology solves problems like lack of mobility, loneliness, losing hearing or vision and memory loss.

Rapidly emerging technological advances hold great potential for the seniors and their caregivers in navigating the physical, cognitive, and social changes that come with aging. Here are some ways technology help improve elder care.

Assistive technology can take over some parts of human care

The elders who have difficulty communicating, getting around, or handling routine tasks can benefit from assistive technology. Assistive technology is a tool or service that helps the elderly with safety, mobility, and daily schedules. It can be a magnifying glass that assists with reading or an amplification device for better hearing and so on. Other examples of assistive technologies include:

For the elderly, assisted devices mean the difference between being able to live independently and having to get long-term home care or join an assisted living facility. These devices play a big role in helping older adults perform simple day-to-day activities like going to the bathroom and bathing.   

Assistive technology can also lower the cost of care for seniors and their loved ones. Although families may need to pay a monthly fee for some tools, the cost is still much lower than that of nursing home, assisted living, or home health care.

GPS devices can prevent seniors from wandering and getting lost

From bracelets to necklaces and key chains to watches, and everything in between, GPS trackers allow caregivers to monitor seniors in real-time. GPS trackers made for the elderly emphasize on functions that improve safety, including health metrics and emergency buttons

A GPS tracker can be a lifesaver for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, or other mental health conditions that make them prone to wandering. It provides peace of mind in knowing that you can find your loved one if they get lost or go astray. And the best part is that the latest GPS devices come with some incredible additional features. Most of them double as fitness devices. Others have audio monitoring, reminder alerts, safe zone alerts, two-way calling, and SOS emergency buttons to make the senior’s life easier.

Virtual assistants (VA) for helping in daily activities

Although robots can't give hugs yet, they can be a nice companion for seniors who lead independent lives. Robotic assistants enhance senior lives by enabling them to enjoy positive and meaningful interactions without limitations like getting tired or being unavailable.

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Virtual Assistants may be able to perform various physical functions in the very near future.

Smart devices like Google Home, Alexa, and Apple HomePod can help seniors in all facets of their daily lives, from searching something online to compiling a dictated grocery list and much more.

In homes fitted with smart devices like smart locks or thermostats, a VA can increase security or regulate temperature through voice commands. Seniors can also contact their loved ones without having to dial or memorize their numbers. What’s more, virtual assistants let seniors to listen to weather forecasts, audiobooks and stay up to date with current events.

Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and remote monitoring

Analysis shows that people aged 85 plus years cost almost seven times more to care for, than those in their 30s. But thanks to the Internet of Medical Things and robotics, it's possible to nullify some of these costs.

IoMT technology is not only enhancing the seniors' experience by minimizing the need for in-person hospital visits; it is also reducing costs and strain on our nation’s hospital systems. Estimates by Goldman Sachs indicate that IoMT will lead to a $300 billion savings in yearly healthcare expenditures. According to the forecast, the cost reductions come from:

IoMT systems and apps, including virtual home assistants, tracking wearables, personal emergency response, and portable diagnostics devices, can offer better care and non-intrusive remote monitoring tools.

Portable diagnostic devices allow seniors to perform urine or blood tests from the comfort of their homes. These devices are user-friendly and intuitive, which makes it easy for seniors to understand and share results with doctors.

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Portable diagnostic devices allow seniors to transmit data, securely from the comfort of their own homes.

Again, most seniors have one or more non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases. For heart patients, heart vital-tracking wearables like heart monitors can track arrhythmia and other issues and notify the doctors immediately, should there be a concern. IoMT devices can also monitor blood glucose, heart rate, urinary frequency, bed exits, steps, sleep cycles and other vitals.

The capabilities of IoMT will lead to fewer mistakes, more accurate diagnosis, and an overall lower cost of care. Coupled with smartphone apps, IoMT technology allows the seniors to send their personal health information, securely to physicians to better monitor diseases and prevent chronic illnesses.

Smartphones for communication and emergency alerts

Smartphones make it easy for the elderly to keep tabs with their loved ones – whether through calls, messaging or even social media. Smartphones come with many different applications that can make your loved one's life convenient and enjoyable. They have larger screens and apps for voice capabilities, internet banking, maps, and music/videos to meet their different needs.

There are also a couple of senior safety applications that you can install in these smartphones. These apps make it easy to track their activities/inactivity, low battery, high ambient noise, location, and medications. Some even send fall alerts in real-time, allowing you to know when your loved one is in trouble. 

Virtual reality escapes to prevent social isolation

Virtual Reality (VR) technology is easily assessable, affordable, and equally effective. Currently, some companies are working with senior living communities to build positive shared experiences through virtual reality. This will allow seniors – particularly those who can't leave their houses due to critical health issues – to experience the fun, awe and freedom by simply wearing a headset.

How to Use Modern Technology for Senior Care

More than 40 million people in the US are 65 years and older. Projections show that this number will increase by almost 18 million, between 2020 and 2030, and hit the 89 million mark by 2050. So, basically, 1 in 5 Americans will be 65 years or over by 2030. With this growth comes an unprecedented time to watch modern technology for senior care emerge.

An aging population comes with a rising need for long term care, healthcare, and social services. Older adults have different healthcare needs than youths and children as they may have vast health issues like hypertension, depression, arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Estimates reveal that 90% of the elderly have one or more chronic conditions and require specific medical care and treatments. This tends to separate them from the rest of the population.

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As more elders face isolation in the age of COVID-19, modern technology is innovating various aspects of medical care for seniors.

The need for this distinction has never been more evident than in the phase of Coronavirus. In fact, on March 17, 2020, Medicare announced that it would immediately expand coverage for telemedicine nationwide to assist seniors with health issues, stay at home and avoid COVID-19. This was in a bid to limit exposure to the virus, considering how vulnerable the older population is to the virus. Thanks to telemedicine, those suffering from diabetes and other conditions won't have to postpone their regular checks with the doctors. They can consult through calls or communication apps like Skype or Zoom.

Under the announcement, Medicare said that hospitals and a range of clinicians would provide telehealth services. Nursing home residents will also have access to doctors through telehealth. The caregivers were allowed to use their day-to-day technologies – including laptops, smartphones, and tablets – to support seniors and provide these services, but at a lower cost than traditional services.

Telemedicine is not the only scenario where modern technology applies to senior care. As it turns out, senior care is an upcoming market that is abundant with new tech opportunities. 

Families, friends, and caregiving communities are embracing digital innovation for senior care. The seniors themselves are also using technology in their daily endeavors. Reports show that 94% of those aged 50 and above use technology to communicate. Additionally, 80% of those aged 50-64 own and use smartphones.

With that in mind, here are some insights on how to use modern technology in senior care.

Webcams

Many states now mandate that senior living communities allow seniors and their families to install webcams or video monitoring equipment. Relatives can now install cameras to try to spare their loved ones from the harms of abuse, which is somewhat common in nursing homes. A webcam – or nanny cam as they're often referred to – also allows families to monitor the resident miles away and remain on alert in case of any problems occurring. Surveillance ensures timely help should the elderly fall, get agitated, lost, or lose their memory, etc.

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As new technologies emerge, senior care has made giant leaps in quality and ability to serve our growing elderly populations.

It's highly unlikely that an assisted living or a nursing home will have a 24/7 presence in a resident's room. Nurses simply won't be able to be there at all times. This leaves families wondering whether their loved one is safe. Webcams offer families peace of mind and can also exonerate caregivers who are wrongfully accused of theft or abuse.

And although privacy concerns often arise regarding webcams, HIPAA doesn't preclude their use in assisted facilities, provided the patient, his or her family, and the clinicians offer consent. After all, the resident's security and safety are the most crucial consideration. Other than nursing homes, webcams are also effective for hospice care, respite care and home care services, among other senior care options.

Thermostats

For senior adults, maintaining optimum room temperatures is critical for comfort and good health. During hot months, the elderly can be at a higher risk for heat stroke, among other complications. Cold weather is just as bad. 45 minutes of a cold indoor environment can reduce muscle strength of the elderly, according to an Age and Aging report. This makes them more prone to falls and injuries.

Besides, radiant heating can cause irregular hot and cold spots throughout the room. It can also introduce air pollutants and allergens in the space. This can be a problem for seniors, especially those with asthma or respiratory sensitivity.

Programmable thermostats are easy to control and allow for standard heating and cooling. They are ideal for the senior population. It is even better when the thermostats are specifically designed for the elderly, as they will have automation options and include large texts for those with less than perfect eyesight. Some of these thermostats use modern technology for senior care, including voice-controlled interfaces, while others even use artificial intelligence to learn the user's schedule and adjust the temperatures accordingly. The latter can be a great option if the senior has any mobility restrictions.

Internet of medical things (IoMT)

The Internet of Things (IoMT) is a network of medical apps and devices connected to health care data technology systems using a network of connected devices and databases. It cuts down unnecessary hospital visits and health care system burdens by connecting seniors to their doctors and enabling the transfer of medical information over a safe network.

The IoMT includes smart devices like vital monitors and wearables strictly for healthcare use on the body in hospital settings, community, or even with in-home senior care. The in-home segment features remote patient monitoring (RPM), personal emergency response systems (PERS), and telehealth virtual visits.

PERS includes wearable units as well as medical call center services to enhance self-reliance for limited-mobility seniors. It allows the elderly to communicate in a timely fashion and get emergency medical care. RPM, on the other hand, includes sensors and devices used for chronic disease management. It involves long-term care in the senior's home to slow the disease's progression and manage medication.

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Contrary to various stereotypes, many seniors have adapted and genuinely enjoy the use of modern technology.

Mobile applications

Many seniors are using smartphones to keep in touch with their loved ones and connect with the world. Since they are already familiar with their mobile phones, apps can be a great way to render personal care. There are all kinds of senior safety apps in the market – the goal should be to find one that's ideal for the situation. The best senior safety apps do most or all of the following:

Emergency response services (ERS)

Lack of sight, hearing, and mobility make it hard for seniors to navigate alone. Emergency response services like LifeAlert have GPS systems that allow caregivers to locate seniors – and can be a lifesaver when the senior strays or encounters problems. Advancements in the ERS world have also seen the development of unique gadgets, safety belts, and other tools to ensure that the seniors are safe.

These are only a few examples of modern technology for senior care. There are dozens of technologies designed for different reasons. But since seniors do not have the same set of conditions, its best to shop around to identify the right technology for their needs.

Can You Tell When a Senior Care Facility is Understaffed?

When you have a loved one who is elderly, you want to do everything to ensure they are cared for and comfortable. But since senior care is often long-term, you may not be able to be there at all times. Luckily, there are ways to still care for your loved one, even when you are not around. You can hire at-home care services or opt to enroll them in an assisted living or board home. But when a senior care facility is understaffed, there are many problems you should look out for.

If you go the senior living homes route, you should know that many facilities are not the same. They vary based on a range of aspects, including the type of foodservice, housing style, number of residents, extra amenities and cost. Licensed facilities offer the basics of all meals, laundry, housekeeping, recreational activities, transportation to appointments and errands, and wellness and exercise programs. They also provide daily living and medical help.

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By and large, senior living homes offer older adults the compassionate and accurate medical care they need. But still, these facilities are not created equally. Some provide better care than others. That’s why many people worry about the level of care their loved one will get while at a facility.

Some common concerns that many residents and their loved ones cite about their senior care facility include:

These issues arise due to many reasons. However, understaffing seems to be at the center of it all. Senior care services can only run efficiently if they have adequate staff for all duties. Again, staff can only offer the best standard of care if they are supported by others and are working as a team.

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Understaffed senior care facilities typically have fatigued, over-worked employees. This might lead to some very real safety concerns and problems with overall care for their residents.

The problems with a senior care facility being understaffed

When a facility faces staff shortage, responsibilities are dropped, certain duties are neglected and inevitably, the standards of care go down. This is because caregivers are forced to prioritize some residents’ needs over others. Over time, this neglect can result in long-term failure to offer basic needs.

When a senior living home is understaffed, it creates a hostile and stressful environment for both residents and the employees. The team may even become bitter and disgruntled. Members may feel ill-equipped and unsupported to do their job.

Experts believe that majority of bad outcomes arise from insufficient staffing. A low resident to staff ratio may translate to missing serious problems. It may also mean a staff member taking out their frustration on residents.

Abuse and neglect tend to worsen as the resident to staff ratio increases. The abuse and neglect by the caregiver can cause physical illnesses, psychological problems and even death among the residents.

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Abuse and neglect are very serious problems at an understaffed senior care facility.

Seniors are dependent upon the caregivers for their eating, bathing, and medications. But understaffing makes it hard for the caregivers to feed and give all residents medicines on a routine schedule. This can result in nutrition deficiencies, malnutrition, and other complications. Again, when the caregivers have less time to attend to each patient, they might become irritable and end up using unnecessary force when dealing with their residents.

How to tell when an assisted living home is understaffed

According to research, 95% of nursing facilities in America are understaffed. But it’s important to note that what constitutes adequate staffing levels for these homes differ from state to state. So you must watch closely and ensure that your loved one is safe and well-cared for in a home. With that in mind, here are some tell-tale signs that a senior living facility is understaffed.

Decreased employee productivity 

When a senior home is understaffed, you will most certainly see disgruntled and tired workers. Irrespective of how hard the team works, it is hard for a skeleton crew to function at the same efficiency level as a full team. Understaffed facilities lack the manpower to meet the needs of every resident. This raises the residents’ stress levels and causes dissatisfaction.

Lower employee morale

In addition to reduced productivity, you’ll also notice that the caregivers and staff have lower morale. When the team is unhappy, they find it hard to do their jobs correctly and deliver the performance expected in the role. For instance, an unhappy nurse may not issue medications or feed all residents as they are supposed to. He or she may also not reposition a resident after a reasonable amount of time. Unfortunately, this may cause bedsores and other health issues, especially among those restrained on bed or in wheelchairs.

Too many complaints

Even the best senior homes will still have complaints. However, when the senior care facility is understaffed, you may notice that the complaints are overwhelming. Since the staff has exceptionally high workloads, they may not be in a position to respond quickly to residents’ demands. So residents will always feel as though their needs aren’t met. You may also notice that your loved one tries to do things by themselves – like lifting equipment – because it’s somehow what they are used to doing in your absence.

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At an understaffed facility, many residents are on their own for even some basic needs.

Sudden weight loss

Your loved one might lose weight because of underlying health conditions. But negligence on the part of a tired, overworked caregiver can also cause the resident’s weight loss. If your elderly patient loses a considerable amount of weight within a short time, it could be that they aren’t receiving adequate care in their assisted living facility. It could be that they are not eating well, or they are missing medication and so on. They may also be emotionally drained from everything that’s happening around them.

Evident discontent with a staff member

Sometimes, you may notice that your loved one dislikes, or even rants about a staff member. In some cases, the discontent might be fuelled by the staff’s attitude or action towards them. Caregivers who have too much pressure from their work demands might neglect their duties or even abuse residents physically or psychologically.

Your loved one tells you

This is perhaps the easiest way to tell that a facility is understaffed. Your loved one stays in the facility and they have a good idea of what goes on when you are away. They may not tell you directly that the facility doesn’t have adequate staff, but you might hear them complain, or say things like “no one helps me do this,” or “medicine is always late,” and so on. You can also ask them if you suspect understaffing or related problems at the nursing home facility.