THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN DEMENTIA CARE HOMES

Care homes are among many that are using cutting-edge technology. These new advances ensure care notes are easily logged. When building a dementia care home or nursing home, it’s important to consider how technology and data can improve care for dementia patients.

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are neurodegenerative diseases that wreak havoc on a person’s ability to remember, reason, and function. As the number of people with dementia continues to rise, technology has become a powerful care improvement tool.

Dementia care homes are increasingly using technology to improve the lives of their residents through individualised care and novel approaches.

This article explores the various technological applications used in senior living facilities and how they affect both the residents and the staff.

WHAT IS DEMENTIA? HOW DOES IT AFFECT OLD PEOPLE?

Dementia is a disease marked by a loss of cognitive function, making everyday tasks increasingly difficult. This decline includes problems with memory, attention, language, and problem-solving. While it is generally found in the elderly, dementia can present symptoms in patients in their 40s and 50s.

Dementia is a term used to describe several conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. These conditions have different causes but share similar symptoms and patterns of cognitive decline.

Dementia generally affects older people by making it harder for them complete once simple tasks. This includes cooking, cleaning, and managing finances. Dementia can also cause changes in behaviour, mood, and personality. It can be challenging to manage for the affected and their loved ones.

THE BENEFITS OF TECHNOLOGY IN DEMENTIA CARE HOMES

Research and commercial interest have focused on using wearable technology to monitor and control the daily routines of people with dementia in elderly care homes. Some examples of this kind of technology are “smart watches” and “skin-friendly patches and bands.”

These record metrics like steps taken, calories burned, heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure and glucose levels. The built-in algorithms of these gadgets can analyse this data and generate valuable insights.

Such technologies can be of enormous benefit to care homes.

● IMPROVED COMMUNICATION AND SOCIALISATION

The use of technology in care homes for people with dementia has led to many benefits, such as better communication and more socialisation. Video conferencing, social media, and gaming devices have made it easier for residents to communicate with their loved ones, lowering feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Additionally, voice-activated assistants and wearable technology have helped staff provide better care, increasing resident safety and quality of life. Both patients and carers can benefit from these instruments.

● ENHANCED SAFETY AND SECURITY

Technology has made dementia care homes more supportive and reassuring for residents and their families by making them safer and more secure.

Technologies such as motion sensors, CCTV cameras, and GPS tracking devices have helped staff to monitor residents’ movements and identify potential risks, such as falls or wandering. Wearable devices that track vital signs and inform staff about emergencies might also help speed up response times and reduce the chances of accidents.

● PERSONALISED CARE AND SUPPORT

Through technology, dementia care homes provide individualised care that meets the needs of each person.

Voice-activated assistants and smart home systems have enabled patients to control their environment and access entertainment and activities that fit their tastes. Electronic health records and medication management systems have also made it easier for staff to make individualised care plans for residents and track progress.

● IMPROVED COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND MEMORY RETENTION

By using technology, dementia care homes can come up with new ways to improve residents’ cognitive health and quality of life.

Gaming systems and virtual reality have improved memory and attention by keeping the brain active. Assistive technologies such as reminder apps and electronic organisers can also help residents with cognitive impairments manage their daily activities and improve independence.

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