Leveraging Healthcare Technology for Older Adults

This week we dive into two areas of healthcare technology aimed at the elderly populations: alleviating loneliness and aging in place.

Leveraging Technology to Alleviate Loneliness Among Elderly Populations

In the early stages of the pandemic, colleagues and I delved into prior scientific research on loneliness in older adults and drew insights from existing literature to explore how technology could be a lifeline for elderly populations amidst the COVID-19 crisis. By combining these insights with our own experiences working with older adult communities, we compiled a comprehensive review published in the journal "Working with Older People," outlining key findings that highlight the potential of technology in combating loneliness.

1. Tailoring Technology to the Elderly

While technology can offer solutions, it must be tailored to the specific needs of the elderly population. It should be intuitive, affordable, and accessible to be truly effective. Factors such as technological familiarity, financial resources, and physical limitations must be taken into account. Seniors should also be educated about potential online risks, such as scams, and be equipped with safety measures when interacting with strangers on apps.

2. Diverse Approaches for Different Loneliness Types

Addressing social and emotional loneliness requires distinct technological strategies. Social loneliness stems from limited interactions with friends and family, leading to depression and health issues. On the other hand, emotional loneliness relates to feelings of fear, helplessness, and uncertainty.?

?? - Tackling Social Loneliness: Simple phone calls and video chats can alleviate social isolation. Virtual social activities like games and exercise classes contribute to mental stimulation and social interaction.

?? - Mitigating Emotional Loneliness: Meditation apps like Headspace aid in managing anxiety. Telehealth services connect seniors with psychiatrists and therapists for support. Reliable information from reputable medical organizations helps reduce confusion amidst changing circumstances.

3. A Unified Effort to Combat Loneliness

A collective effort is required to address elderly loneliness during the pandemic. Family, friends, and neighbors can assist in identifying suitable tech solutions, setting up devices, and providing guidance on usage. Care facilities and providers can facilitate virtual social activities and help residents maintain connections with loved ones.

?? - Support from Institutions: Insurance companies and public health organizations should integrate technological solutions into their services for isolated seniors, including those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. By doing so, the potential health impacts of loneliness can be mitigated.

In most challenging times, every individual - be it a healthcare worker, a government official, a family member, or a neighbor - can contribute to alleviating the loneliness experienced by the elderly. By creatively addressing these challenges at various levels, we can collectively navigate through these trying times and make a positive impact on the lives of seniors.

Note: For author's copy of the paper mentioned above, here is the link of PubMed source. The original article was co-written with Kristina Conroy for Boston University School of Public Health 's Public Health Post .

Tech Innovations Transform Aging in Place

As more people opt to age in place, tech companies are seizing the opportunity. This trend isn't new, but the tech solutions are just emerging. From health monitoring to enhanced mobility, these innovations are changing the aging-in-place landscape. Below are few interesting areas growing the intersection of aging in place and technology:

Expanding Tech Toolbox

Aging in place goes beyond traditional aids like grab bars. Now, smart canes, motion sensors, fall detection gadgets, and motorized lifts are stepping in. There are also improvements in hearing aids and telehealth systems.

Booming Senior Market

The economic activity of those over 50 in the U.S. is worth $9.5 trillion annually, and it's growing ( AARP ). Big players like 亚马逊 , 苹果 , and 谷歌 are entering the senior care arena, recognizing the potential.

Best Buy's Surprising Move

Even 百思买 is in the game with Best Buy Health, offering hospital-at-home services. The goal is to simplify care and reduce burdens on both patients and caregivers.

Two-Tiered Market

Aging in place varies from healthy older adults to those with limited mobility. Products like UpLyft? (world's first seated self-transfer System between bed and wheelchair), Dignity Lifts (electric toilet lifts that allow you to maintain your independence and to stand up, for yourself), TS Medical 's FitFoot (designed to guide effective, controlled ankle flexion and extension exercises while stimulating the sole of the foot) cater to seniors' needs. Passive monitoring tech provides discreet tracking, and even security companies are diving in.

Smart Home Integration

Smart devices, from speakers to lighting, are being used to aid seniors. Some, like iGuard Home Solutions Inc 's iGuardStove, enhance safety in the kitchen. The CAN Go Smart Cane (founded and designed by Ahmad Alghazi in 2014 after taking care of his grandmother) & and wearable medical alert systems (like Life Alert ) are also making strides.

Ageless Design

Tech should be user-friendly for seniors, considering vision, hearing, and dexterity ( AARP Foundation ). Apple's iPad is a prime example. Amazon's "Dialogue Boost" for those with hearing issues showcases ageless design.

CES 2023 Highlight

Aging tech was a star at CES 2023, reflecting its growing importance (great coverage by Keren Etkin ).

The aging-in-place revolution is almost mainstream everywhere, and tech is leading the way as it enters into the healthcare realm.

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