Nursing home abuse is an unfortunately prevalent issue sweeping the nation. Funding cuts, staffing shortages, and overcrowding often contribute to higher chances of neglect or abuse in retirement communities. A significant amount of research is being conducted as to why nursing home abuse continues despite strict regulations. As technology continues to improve in society and the healthcare industry, some believe that it may be the key to deterring or preventing widespread nursing home abuse. Can better technology in nursing homes really prevent neglect or abuse?
Surveillance Systems
When it comes to building a strong case for nursing home abuse, video camera footage is undeniable evidence. Technology has significantly improved the capabilities of security and surveillance systems in nursing homes. Video quality is much better, and storage capabilities are much higher. Staff and management can view camera footage from anywhere when the system is connected, making security and safety issues easier to detect. Families can view video camera footage as well, making care more transparent and stress-free. The presence of high-quality camera systems can even act as a deterrent to abuse and neglect. Movement and sound notifications can provide real-time alerts to family or management when necessary, especially regarding patients who are prone to wandering or mental health concerns.
Electronic Health Records
Nursing home abuse or neglect can often be attributed to missed meals or medications. Sometimes, medical files aren’t easily tracked or located, making it unsafe for staff to administer medication or meals when uncertain of allergens or medication schedules. Electronic health records make it much easier to track and locate patient information, ensuring that meals and medications are administered in a safe and timely manner. These records can also provide alerts when any patients are due for a meal or medication to reduce the chances of lapses in care.
Real-Time Alarms and Communication
The healthcare industry as a whole is changing for the better when it comes to communication tools. More healthcare communities, including nursing homes, are implementing patient or family messaging platforms to make getting in touch with healthcare providers easier and more accessible. Surveillance systems or wearable safety devices can help staff get a better idea of when a patient needs immediate assistance. Ambient sensors in beds or furniture can detect pressure in case a patient has fallen or is wandering. Test results can be immediately published to patient platforms for more immediate and tailored healthcare. Immediate digital communication tools are more transparent and can help patients and families keep a better eye on their nursing home stay and healthcare plan.
Automated Management
Artificial intelligence and automation tools can help take care of mundane administrative tasks in a nursing home while employees focus on more important, patient-tailored tasks. Appointment and visitation scheduling can be automated while staff focuses on taking care of patients and their family members. AI can also create efficient staff schedules, organize and update patient records, and identify potential risks of mistreatment in patients, such as increased incident reports or behavioral patterns. While AI should always be monitored and verified by humans, it can provide valuable time-saving tools to reduce abuse and neglect.
Patient Wearable Technology
Wearable technology includes devices like smartwatches that are placed on clothes or body parts. They can provide information like a patient’s location, vital signs, and physical activity. Heart monitors can let staff know if a resident is having a cardiac event. Patient movements can be tracked through physical activity and GPS technology, which can be particularly useful for those who wander or are prone to falling. Not only can wearable technology provide better, real-time care for nursing home patients, but it can also help staff learn better monitoring and treatment tactics.
Smart Thermostats
Smart technology has significantly improved the way we live. Automated and programmable home devices can make comfort more accessible. One of the most beneficial smart home devices that has been developed is the smart thermostat. These programmable thermostats can provide real-time alerts when the temperature reaches a certain threshold, making it easier for staff to ensure patients are comfortable, especially when heating or air conditioning malfunctions. Nursing home patients are very vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Staff can quickly address any thermostat problems straight away without the patient suffering. Controlling a room’s climate, lighting, and humidity levels can provide more comfortable stays for residents.
Conclusion
Technology alone cannot eliminate nursing home abuse. To implement the most effective prevention plan, nursing homes must adhere strictly to regulatory standards, and governments must eliminate oversight regarding inspections and evaluations. Employees need to be thoroughly monitored, vetted, and trained in healthcare settings like nursing homes. These communities need proper funding to afford the technology that can help protect nursing home residents. With a combination of strict care policies and beneficial technology, retirement communities everywhere can greatly improve.
Founder Dinis Guarda
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