As our loved ones grow older, their safety becomes an increasingly important concern. This is especially true for seniors residing in nursing homes, where both physical and mental vulnerabilities can pose significant challenges. Thankfully, the rapid pace of technological advancement offers a range of solutions to improve the safety and security of these facilities. From advanced surveillance systems that monitor every corner, communication apps that ensure seamless interaction between staff, residents, and their families, to health monitoring devices that provide real-time updates on residents' well-being - technology is revolutionizing the way we care for our elders.
Surveillance Systems Keep Getting Better
Surveillance systems play an integral role in nursing home safety by making it simple to continuously monitor different areas of the center. Cameras in the right locations give caretakers the ability to observe residents without being physically present at all times. A well-designed surveillance system will reduce pressure on staff members to be everywhere all at once while also improving the peace of mind of residents.
As technology evolves, these systems are becoming more sophisticated and user-friendly, too. Each year, improvements in footage resolution provide clearer and more detailed images to better identify potential hazards or incidents, such as falls or unexpected health emergencies. A nursing home that has not updated its surveillance systems in several years should consider doing so soon.
Moreover, advancements in storage and retrieval systems have made accessing saved video files more efficient than ever before. In the past, sifting through hours of footage was a time-consuming process. Now, thanks to technologies like cloud storage and advanced search features, specific incidents can be located and reviewed in a matter of minutes.
Apps Let Everyone Stay in Touch
Smartphone apps are revolutionizing communication and care in nursing homes, making it easier for everyone involved to stay connected and informed. If your elderly loved one has a smartphone, you should see if there are apps that they can use to stay in touch. There might even be apps used by the nursing home for resident communications and care requests.
Different apps that can make nursing home care safer and more efficient include:
- Communication apps: Apps like Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime allow residents to video call with their family members, helping to bridge the gap caused by distance or pandemic-related visitation restrictions. These apps can be used on smartphones, tablets, or computers, making them accessible to most people.
- Care coordination apps: Some nursing homes use dedicated apps designed specifically for care coordination. These apps allow residents to request services from staff, such as meal delivery, housekeeping, or assistance with daily activities. They can also enable staff to keep families updated on their loved one's care and wellbeing.
- Health monitoring apps: Numerous health apps can assist with medication reminders and detecting falls. These can be particularly useful in a nursing home setting to ensure that residents are receiving appropriate care and to alert staff to any potential health concerns.
- Social engagement apps: Certain apps have been designed to help seniors stay mentally active and socially engaged. These might include games, digital reading platforms, or social media apps that allow residents to connect with others and share experiences.
Important Medical Technology Advancements
Medical technology is a rapidly advancing field, with new innovations and improvements emerging constantly. Some of these advancements can significantly enhance the quality of care provided in nursing homes. By staying on top of these developments, nursing homes can identify and integrate new devices and equipment that offer better care and security for their residents.
From sophisticated health monitoring devices that track vital signs and detect irregularities to advanced wound care technology that speeds up healing and reduces discomfort, medical technology has the potential to revolutionize care for elderly people. There are also innovations like telehealth services, which allow residents to consult with specialists without leaving the comfort of the nursing home. Furthermore, assistive devices like smart wheelchairs and robotic aids can enhance mobility and independence among residents, improving their quality of life.
However, it's important to note that not all nursing homes are equipped to fully leverage these medical technology advancements. Some facilities may lack the necessary infrastructure, funding, or trained personnel to implement and maintain complex technological systems. As a result, these nursing homes may need to outsource more advanced medical treatments, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive care onsite.
Harvey & Foote Law Firm in New Mexico proudly accepts complex and hard-fought nursing home abuse and neglect cases. If your loved one was injured while staying in a nursing home, we can see if the injury could have been prevented with better technology implemented by the nursing home and its staff. You might have a claim to demand compensation and justice—let us help figure out if you do.
Call (505) 295-2245 to get a free, confidential consultation with our nursing home abuse attorneys.
