According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as many as one in 10 adults across the United States suffers from depression – a mood disorder that can lead these individuals to withdraw from others and substantially affect their quality of life. For older adults – particularly those experiencing social isolation – depression is especially dangerous. The apathy toward one’s own health that this condition so often brings can result in accelerated physical and cognitive decline. If this is taking place behind closed doors, or far away from family and friends, there is no telling how bad things may get before a caregiver or loved one is made aware of the situation.
Yet, as bleak as this picture may seem, there is hope in the form of caregiver support technology. Recently, New America Media reported on the use of video chat programs like Skype to facilitate social engagement among older adults and ultimately combat the specter of depression. A team of eldercare experts from the University of Texas School of Social Work spoke to the news outlet about an approach to eldercare that utilizes video chat to provide psychotherapy for low-income older adults who are at risk for depression.
“Older adults [often] prefer non-medication approaches when they’re available, and it’s particularly sad when low-income older adults for whom medication isn’t effective are given that as the treatment and not given the option to do something that would be their preference,” said Professor Namkee Choi, who is spearheading the video chat-based program.
Further investigation is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of therapy via a computer screen, but Dr. Choi’s initiative does emphasize how beneficial a tool video chat capabilities can be to improve quality of life for older adults. Independa’s telecare services include this convenient and accessible feature as well as medical reminders, an interactive calendar and remote monitoring. Contact us through our online form to learn more.
