Managing healthcare in assisted living environments used to call for plenty of manual work and a constant need for checkups. However, as technology has evolved over the last few years, monitoring patient wellbeing and keeping track of their medical records has never been easier. Throughout this article, we’ll discuss six examples of technology within assisted living environments.
Blockchain
Blockchain is most commonly associated with cryptocurrency and NFTs. However, the infrastructure is simply a digital ledger managed across a series of decentralized computers. When changes are made to the ledger, information is encrypted and verified across all member computers, meaning healthcare facilities can store data securely across different locations. In the current blockchain landscape, practical applications are still in the early days – watch this space as the blockchain revolution unfolds.
Electronic Health Records
Gone are the days when medical records were stored in bulky filing cabinets or snail-speed computer systems. Instead, patient data is stored digitally on speedy cloud systems that give healthcare professionals instant access to the information they need. Being able to view this data instantly means higher levels of care are provided at assisted living communities like Bella Terra assisted living because there’s less opportunity for human error and miscommunication.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is making its way into all crevices of life, whether that be at home or work. In a healthcare setting, AI allows smart devices to monitor residents and predict upcoming accidents including trips, slips, and falls. These devices can be set up to communicate with the healthcare team as well as loved ones. As well as this, AI is providing companionship to patients in assisted living facilities.
Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the name given to the series of devices that allow us to control environments with our voices and smartphones. For example, the TV, lights, and heating can all be controlled using voice commands. This is great news for healthcare professionals at assisted living facilities because it allows residents to be more independent, meaning they can focus on providing essential levels of care.
Telehealth
Telehealth is anything to do with patients accessing healthcare digitally, whether this is video communication or online help centers. During the coronavirus pandemic, telehealth applications saw an enormous rise in adoption. In particular, video conferencing platforms can be used to assess patients remotely. Further, residents in your care can improve their mental health by keeping in touch with their loved ones, which is a great bonus.
Wearable Tech
Bracelets equipped with tracking chips can monitor heart rate, physical activity, heart rate, and blood pressure. The information is synced up and can be used to monitor overall health remotely. If there are any irregularities, they can be picked up before becoming problematic, which helps save lives.
Managing care within assisted living environments is difficult, but technology has made way for much more effective and streamlined operations. Technology allows medical professionals to access records, monitor health, and provide care without the need for constant reviews.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.
