Technology in care is improving lives

The care sector is increasingly using technology to help improve people's quality of life and make them more independent.

‘Assistive technology’ such as sensors and alarms are being used more and more to help support people with care needs, giving their families and friends peace of mind.

Worcestershire County Council’s Adult Social Care service has been working with providers such as Community Housing to deliver care using these assistive technologies, also known as Technology Enabled Care Services (TECS), to keep residents safe and independent, for as long as possible in their own homes and communities.

Frazer and Stan are two Worcestershire residents whose lives have improved with the introduction of these assistive technologies. 

Frazer, from Droitwich, lives with chronic epileptic seizures.

Before assistive technology was introduced into Frazer's life, he needed to have his temperature checked every hour. His life revolved around this, making planning and doing anything difficult. It also caused him a lot of anxiety.

Automatic sensors now regularly monitor his temperature and pulse, giving him more freedom in his day. If any readings are irregular, carers are instantly alerted.

He also has a fall sensor, adding a layer of security and reassurance. If he does fall his carers are immediately informed so they can swiftly come to help.  

This "assistive technology” has bridged the gap between keeping Frazer as safe as possible while minimising the amount of support coming into his home.

Frazer said: “The technologies that Community Housing TECS have provided has meant I am able to live far more independently and safely.”

Stan (82) who has Alzheimer’s found his life similarly altered.

After a worrying incident where he left his home and injured himself, Stan's daughter, Marie, felt he would be safer living in a care home. But, Stan was determined to stay in his own home. So they talked to professionals to find a way to keep Stan safe and happy at home.

Together they decided to install the Canary system where discreet, wireless sensors monitor movement, temperature and door activity. This meant that Marie could check in on her Dad, without him feeling as if she was checking up on him. Marie could also rest assured that she knew if carers had visited to support her Dad throughout the day.

Councillor Adrian Hardman, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Both Frazer and Stan’s stories show just how life-changing assistive technology can be. They really do help people of any age enjoy as much independence as possible, whilst remaining safe. I’m really proud of our Adult Social Care team who have been at the forefront in embedding Technology Enabled Care Services to support our residents.” 

These stories highlight the life-changing impact of assistive technologies for people who need the support of social care.

Community Housing Tech in Care carry out their assessments in person to make sure they identify what help someone needs and to give them the most appropriate care system for them.  

By embracing assistive technology, we can enable more individuals like Frazer and Stan to enjoy independent, fulfilling lives. We can keep our residents safe in their own homes and give families and whole communities better lives by using the latest technology.

If you think that you or someone you know would benefit from the use of technology in their care further information is available on the Assistive Technology page of Worcestershire County Council’s website.

More information is also available at the Community Housing Tech in Care pages.