Technology
will solve all of the sector’s problems. But, without a doubt, it can prompt more than marginal gains. Even just digitising their records, as the NHS has been doing, would enable care providers to save huge amounts of time in record taking and keeping. It would also facilitate a range of other benefits, such as automation of routine tasks and advanced data analysis. These are the kinds of things that could help struggling care organisations to achieve the kind of quality that they want for their clients. Transitioning to digital systems would also make it easier, and more effective to adopt digital communications platforms. There are several that are designed specifically for care environments, which aim to improve the flow of information between care professionals and the organisations that employ them. They can simplify organisation and ensure that important, sensitive information remains secure. Technology, in this way, can be like opening a door to a new realm of possibilities.
Innovative sensory stimulation technology It is not only about back-end software to help care organisations operate more efficiently. Technology can also improve the entire experience of care for clients directly. There is a misperception that people living in care might want to avoid technology, which could be complicated and frustrating for them to use. But that does not have to be the case. Depending on the platform, technology can be simple and engaging for people living in care. It can improve their quality of life and, as a result, relieve the stress of those who work with them.
Technology used to enhance sensory stimulation activities is a wonderful example of that. Care environments can often feel very clinical, and people living in them can lack exciting media to engage with – maybe a radio or TV at best. These people are often also living with long- term health conditions like dementia, which research has shown to increase the likelihood of inactivity. Activities which increase sensory stimulation can drastically improve their social, physical, and cognitive wellbeing. It can get them moving, and also offer them opportunities to interact with other people. Innovative, yet simple technology can enhance these stimulatory experiences. And interactive light technology, which engages people living in care with multi- sensory media, is one particularly powerful form. The technology enables people living
with dementia to engage with physically and mentally demanding games like bubble-popping, piano playing, colouring, leaf-sweeping, and other activities in the comfort of their homes. These can transform the experience of care for many people, including care professionals. Social-Ability’s own technology, accessible through the Happiness Programme, has achieved astonishing results in this way. Ninety-eight percent of participating care providers reported improved social wellbeing. One in every six recorded a reduction in the number of falls their residents experienced. Seventy-three percent noticed a reduction in stress levels of the people they care for. The programme has also led to improved health outcomes, higher activity levels, and a reduced use of antipsychotic drugs.
One of the other less visible benefits of
interactive light technology is its effect on the carers and families who look after those living with dementia. Care professionals who engage with the technology have reported feeling more engaged and happier, and able to create better relationships with the people they are caring for. It also provides a means for families to connect with their relatives through a fun intergenerational activity. Technology, in this way, has a positive influence on every person involved in the care process.
Social media is crucial
Part of the problem with the care sector’s slow adoption of technology is that it has also come to define the sector’s public image as old and creaky. This, in turn, exacerbates several of the challenges it is tussling with.
September 2024
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