Just a few years ago, many senior living executives hesitated to adopt technology because of high implementation costs and steep learning curves. Today, though, those same executives are experiencing firsthand the significant reductions in costs and increases in efficiency technology in senior living can bring. What are some of the technologies helping senior living communities operate more smoothly?
Electronic health records
Providing comprehensive health care services for seniors can be laborintensive, since the aging population tends to have more health concerns than younger individuals, as Sunrise Senior Living notes. Coordinating various medications and their possible interactions, organizing directives from numerous providers, managing varying nutritional needs, and keeping senior residents safe and healthy within a community all require a high level of attention from qualified professionals.
The growing prevalence of electronic health records is proving highly useful to geriatric care managers and other medical professionals serving seniors. EHRs allow medical providers and senior living staff to share information and streamline care, as the Assisted Living Federation of America points out.
IndependaTVe™
Through the simple interface of a TV and a remote control, IndependaTVe™ provides senior care staff with a userfriendly way to input health metrics. Seniors’ loved ones can access the information with one touch, either from their computers or through a convenient mobile app.
The system also allows seniors to watch their favorite TV programs, get appointment reminders, and stay in touch with children, grandchildren and other family members through video chatting. Anyone who can use a traditional TV set can use IndependaTVe™, which helps seniors maintain a sense of control. Not surprisingly even seniors, who use computers and mobile apps, love using the the IndependaTVe™ right from their easy chairs.
Mobile apps
A number of communities, including Erickson Living, are incorporating technology into senior living by launching mobile apps that keep residents connected, the Assisted Living Federation reports. Seniors and their families can use computers or mobile devices to access the apps, which provide event signup, dining menus, staff information, transportation and maintenance requests, access to classic films and more.
Increasing efficiency, reducing costs
The use of technology in senior living is helping communities across the country offer a high level of services while maintaining financial sustainability. Mobile apps, IndependaTVe™ and electronic health records are providing simple, costeffective methods for keeping residents connected, engaged and healthy.
