Many government officials and heath care professionals have touted aging in place as the savior of a perennially overburdened eldercare system, particularly in the wake of an aging Baby Boomer generation. Indeed, this form of independent living is widely preferred among today's older adults, according to a survey conducted by the AARP, and is often more cost-effective than transitioning to a senior living community.
That being said, aging in place may not be a viable option for all older adults, particularly those who struggle with mobility issues or are starting to exhibit signs of cognitive decline. Telecare services like Independa have arisen in part to empower these individuals to maintain their independence while benefiting from an unobtrusive safety net helmed by care managers. In addition, a recent study conducted by Brown University researchers has indicated that regular meal services could also help bridge the gap for older adults who don't require the continual care offered by senior living communities, but could still benefit from a bit of extra help.
The public health researchers found that, by increasing the number of older adults who partake in "Meals on Wheels" programs, it may be possible for state officials to dramatically reduce the percentage of the elderly population that ultimately ends up in care homes. This could boast substantial benefits for state budgets, overextended eldercare professionals and older adults alike.
"We're not proposing that all states simply increase the proportion of age 65 plus receiving meals by 1 percent, but if they were to target these vulnerable people who are at risk for nursing home placement they would likely see more savings. This is a program that has the potential to save states a lot of money if it's done correctly," lead author Kali Thomas said of the projected ramp up.
Though there are many potential advantages to such programs from a fiscal standpoint, ultimately the quality of life enjoyed by older adults must remain a primary consideration. That is precisely what Independa's suite of caregiver support and independent living technology has been designed to preserve and enhance. Our Caregiver Web App enables care managers to remotely monitor care recipients, whether they reside at home or in a senior living community, from one centralized location. In addition, these professionals can also take advantage of medical reminders, calendars and other features designed to help streamline their resources and ensure that the needs of every care recipient are met.
The resident-facing Angela Interface, meanwhile, gives care recipients a greater degree of control and independence with regard to their day-to-day care, and may combat social isolation by empowering them to freely communicate with care givers and loved ones via video chat, email, Facebook and more.
Contact us today through our online form to learn more about how Independa can make aging in place a reality for more older adults.
