CRISPR gene editing, AI diagnostic imaging tools, MRNA technology—the recent advancements in medicine seem like they’re straight out of a Star Trek episode. Innovative science and technology are moving our world towards the futuristic societies some of us thought could only exist in science fiction. And these innovations aren’t just impacting medicine, they’re also revolutionizing the homecare industry—from robotic assistants, to AI remote patient monitoring tools, and more. Many of the new breakthroughs will soon be changing how homecare services are delivered. Here we dive into some of the impressive technology that’s already becoming a game changer for the aging population.
One of the most significant challenges of aging in the comfort of one’s home is the home itself. As people get older, maintaining a clean and safe living environment becomes increasingly difficult. Moreover, mobility issues and the struggle to perform daily activities can lower an older adult’s quality of life. But thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT), smart home technology is ushering in a new era of accessibility for our aging population.
In the age of IoT, our homes are becoming “smart hubs” where lights, doors, and even entertainment systems can be seamlessly controlled through voice commands. Smart stoves and ovens are designed to automatically power down after a period of inactivity or can be remotely managed by caregivers. Smart cameras offer family members the ability to keep a watchful eye on their loved ones, even when they can’t be physically present. Medical alert systems have evolved as well; no longer requiring a button press for help, they respond to voice commands. These examples are just the beginning of the potential of smart home technology, an industry that is hoping to take home accessibility to new heights.
Today, there is an array of robots designed to provide much-needed companionship and assist in health monitoring for the elderly. One of these robotic companion companies, ElliQ, has even partnered with the New York State Office for the Aging in a pilot program that brought ElliQ to over 800 seniors. The results have been truly inspirational, as these robots not only decrease loneliness but also foster engagement and support aging individuals. Here are just some of the things ElliQ can do:
ElliQ was specifically developed to address the loneliness epidemic among older adults. So far, it has shown an impressive 80% reduction in feelings of loneliness, marking a significant stride towards creating a brighter, more interconnected future for our seniors.
Do you remember Rosie, the sassy robot housekeeper from the Jetsons? Today’s world welcomes her more refined descendants—assistive robots. These machines process sensory information and lend a hand with daily tasks. Robots like Labrador can deliver meals, carry laundry, or keep critical items within reach.
Imagine you’re an older adult whose caregiver just left for the day, and you desperately need your medication from the kitchen. Assistive robots like Labrador can come to the rescue, fetching your medication tray that your caregiver set up earlier. They navigate your home, locate your items, and deliver them to you, making tasks easier, restoring mobility, and boosting independence. These robots are not just futuristic gadgets; they’re an extension of the caregiver.
Aging often comes with a myriad of medications that need to be taken daily, and errors in medication management can have severe consequences. This is especially true for those grappling with memory disorders. Thankfully, a new tool has hit the market to help people manage their medications securely.
Intelligent pill dispensers, like Hero, provide a reassuring solution for both the elderly and their families. Caregivers or family members can set medication schedules through a connected mobile app and preload up to a 90-day supply of medications. When it’s time for the person to take their medication, an alert sounds and they simply press a button to release the prescribed dosage. This innovative system not only empowers people to remain in their homes but also eliminates the risk of medication errors made by patients and caregivers (everyone is human after all).
One goal for both providers and clinicians is to avoid hospitalization and empower people to remain healthy at home. To achieve this goal, many are turning to Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) devices, which allows patients to monitor health conditions safely from their homes. And now, with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), these devices can be ingeniously enhanced with predictive capabilities.
Imagine, a heart monitor that doesn’t just alert the patient’s doctor when they are having a cardiac event, but instead analyzes their daily readings, detecting small anomalies and analyzing patterns to predict the likelihood of a cardiac event in the near future. This type of technology allows people to catch potential health problems before they become an emergency. Coupled with the dedicated care provided by in-home caregivers who tend to daily needs, these AI-powered RPM devices create a safe environment for aging individuals.
Here are some examples of RPM devices that could be enhanced with AI:
As these AI RPM devices gain popularity, homecare agencies may increasingly recognize the importance of equipping caregivers with the training to set up devices and help patients use them. This will help ensure regular and accurate readings, and foster communication with the care team. The integration of AI into RPM devices not only extends the boundaries of care but also promises a future where independence and good health can both be achieved.
For the first time, recent clinical trial results are showing that a drug, lecanemab, a monoclonal antibody, has been able to slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients. Some are saying that due to this success, we have entered into a new era of Alzheimer’s treatment. One that can treat the underlying cause of disease progression as opposed to symptomatic treatment. This treatment targets the removal of amyloid beta plaque, one of the two proteins thought to contribute to Alzheimer’s. The other being tau neurofibrillary tangles. There is hope that one-day treatment will exist that can target both proteins.
As Alzheimer’s treatments continue to advance and more people gain access to treatment, patients may be more likely to choose to age in their homes as opposed to nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Those with less severe symptoms may be most comfortable with regular visits from a caregiver, and no longer need around-the-clock care.
Homecare management software has become the backbone of the industry, streamlining processes, enhancing caregiver efficiency, and improving health outcomes. Software solutions such as HHAeXchange offer a comprehensive platform for managing caregiver schedules, EVV compliance, billing, and so much more, equipping agencies with the tools they need to provide high-quality care.
This software is becoming increasingly more advanced, supporting value-based care initiatives, self-direction participants, and automating more and more of the daily agency operations. Our newest innovations in homecare technology will allow providers to do what they do best – care for their clients!
We are at the threshold of a transformative era in homecare. Science and technology are blazing a trail towards a future where aging in place is not just a possibility, but a choice everyone feels comfortable making. From smart homes and assistive robots, to intelligent pill dispensers and remote patient monitoring, these innovations promise to redefine how we care for our elderly loved ones and inspire a brighter, safer future for everyone.
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