The Role of Technology in Assisted Living Emergencies

National Library of Medicine reports that in the U.S., patients over 75 have the second-highest emergency department visit rates, following infants under one year.

These visits often happen at home due to falls or health issues. As a family member, you may worry about a senior parent living alone. What if they fall and can't call for help?

Moving to assisted living can reduce these dangers by providing support and care. Assisted living communities use technology for seniors to enhance safety and ensure quick emergency responses.

In this article, we'll explore how technology plays a crucial role in keeping seniors safe in assisted living.

Emergency Call Systems for Quick Help

Many seniors struggle to use conventional devices like smartphones during emergencies. Tiny screens, complicated interfaces, and shaky hands can make calling for help hard. In critical moments, they might panic and forget how to operate a phone.

Emergency call systems are life-saving tools for seniors. These systems allow older adults to call for help at the push of a button. Whether they fall or face a health emergency, help can be summoned quickly.

A wearable device or stationary button provides instant access to help. These systems reduce response times and ensure seniors receive the care they need during emergencies.

Assistive Technology for Daily Life

Assistive technology helps seniors manage daily tasks, making life easier and safer. These tools support independence and provide essential assistance. Common types of assistive technology include:

• Voice-controlled devices
• Home automation systems
• Adaptive devices for daily activities
• Smart medication dispensers
• Mobility aids like walkers or motorized scooters

These technologies allow seniors to maintain their routines while staying safe and connected. They also reduce reliance on others for basic needs, promoting confidence and self-reliance.

Assisted living communities often integrate assistive technology into their care plans. By offering these tools, they create a supportive environment where seniors can thrive and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Fall Detection Technology

The CDC reports that over 14 million senior Americans fall every year. These falls are dangerous and can lead to severe injuries. A fall might cause a head injury, leaving the senior unconscious and unable to call for help.

If no one is nearby, the injuries might worsen or even become fatal. Moving your older parent to an assisted living community can reduce these risks. Most assisted living communities use fall detection technology to enhance safety.

This technology senses when a fall happens and automatically alerts caregivers. Wearable devices like smartwatches or pendants track movement patterns.

If unusual behavior is detected, help is sent immediately. Fall detection technology saves lives by preventing delayed responses and reducing injury risks.

GPS Tracking to Locate Loved Ones

A significant number of seniors live with dementia or other cognitive issues. According to Tangram Insurance Services, based on data from the National Council on Aging, 36% of individuals with dementia are prone to wandering. This behavior puts them at risk of getting lost, often in unsafe or unfamiliar areas.

Searching for a lost senior can take time and delay help. Moving your older parent to an assisted living community provides a safer environment. Many communities use GPS tracking technology to monitor residents' locations in real-time.

Caregivers can quickly locate and assist seniors who wander. This technology offers peace of mind, knowing your loved one is safe and that help is always close. GPS tracking prevents potential tragedies.

Remote Monitoring for Continuous Care

Remote monitoring technology allows caregivers to track a senior's health and well-being from a distance. Sensors and smart devices can monitor various vital signs, such as:

• Heart rate
• Blood pressure
• Oxygen levels
• Body temperature
• Blood sugar levels
• Sleep patterns
• Activity levels

These insights provide caregivers with real-time updates about a senior's health condition. They reduce the need for constant in-person visits.

The insights also help identify potential issues early. Senior living communities often use remote monitoring to ensure residents receive timely care.

This technology improves care quality and prevents emergencies by detecting warning signs before they escalate. Remote monitoring means better health management and a safer, more supportive environment for seniors.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Seniors are more likely to forget important tasks like turning off the stove. This can cause fires or lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

They might have smoke detectors at home but forget to replace the batteries. These risks can be life-threatening if no one is around to help.

Assisted living communities provide a safer solution. They use advanced fire and carbon monoxide detectors designed for continuous monitoring. These detectors are inspected regularly to ensure they are working properly.

Caregivers are also trained to respond quickly in case of emergencies. Moving your senior parent to assisted living can reduce these risks. It ensures a safer environment with reliable safety systems in place.

Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

Most senior living communities are moving away from traditional paper medical records. Paper records make it hard to access a resident's medical history quickly.

Now, many communities use Electronic Health Records (EHRs) for better efficiency. EHRs store medical information securely.

They also allow instant access for caregivers. Caregivers can easily check:

• A resident's health history
• Medications
• Doctor's notes

This system helps reduce the risk of errors. EHRs also allow for faster sharing of information with doctors and specialists.

Assisted living communities use EHRs to provide more organized and efficient care. These records save time and improve safety.

Technology for Seniors: Saving Lives

Technology for seniors plays a critical role in enhancing safety and saving lives. Emergency call systems, remote monitoring, and assistive devices all contribute to a safer environment. By adopting these technologies, assisted living communities can help reduce risks and improve the quality of life for residents.

At Addington Place of Mt. Pleasant, we are committed to using advanced technology that saves lives. Our community integrates the latest technology for seniors to ensure peace of mind for families.

We prioritize the health and safety of your loved ones with tools like fall detection systems and remote monitoring. Contact us today to learn how we can provide the care and safety your senior parent deserves.