With the transition of various healthcare systems, it’s imperative that all individuals, particularly those living with chronic illnesses or disabilities, continue to remain independent and healthy. Though elderly persons have various health problems, their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as eating, bathing, dressing and moving around are critical determinants of a person’s well being. These activities are essential and should be constantly monitored. Moreover, remote monitoring has recently been adopted as an innovative solution towards ADL monitoring.
What is Remote Monitoring?
Remote monitoring is the process of technologically overseeing a person’s health and overall activities from a distance. One such fairly common remote monitoring tool are wearable fitness trackers. In addition, smart home devices and mobile applications along with various other devices and sensors can also perform remote monitoring functions. These technologies enable caregivers and medical providers to keep track of a patient’s ADLs in real time without direct supervision.
Advantages of using Remote Technology in Monitoring ADLs
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Improved Security and Proactive Action:
Adopting remote monitoring technologies has greatly enhanced the security of caregivers as they receive constant feedback on the patient’s status including mobility. For instance, these sensors are able to report on whether a person has fallen down or remained inactive for a prolonged period of time. Effective intervention can thus be facilitated in a more timely manner, minimizing injuries or health complications. Moreover, notification about the changing status is sent in real time which enables caregivers to act as the situation demands.
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Fostering Self-sufficiency
Tracking of ADLs is mainly aimed at the bid to assist the user to be independent for as long as it is realistically possible. The person’s capability of performing daily activities without being directly supervised is important and can be tracked with remote monitoring systems. If there is an observable decline in performance, a change in the care plan or additional assistance can be provided which will ensure that the individual remains as independent as possible.
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Convenience and Accessibility:
Caregivers or health care providers can use remote monitoring for the evaluation of ADLs without needing to be physically present. Such convenience is beneficial for family members residing away to keep track of their older family members and gives them a peace of mind. Telemedicine software may also combine the data from the remote monitoring and allow health professionals to check on the patients’ well being during video appointments.
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Cost-Effective Care
Increased use of remote monitoring devices leads to fewer visits to the hospital, resulting in less expensive healthcare services. This allows caring services to be more targeted and saves important resources like time and money which therefore helps to increase the efficiency of healthcare services.
Conclusion
Remote monitoring tools are changing the way we monitor the elderly. This technology greatly increases the safety of elderly people by allowing us to keep track of their condition in real-time - as well as enables us to provide more efficient and cost-effective care. At Serenity of Commerce, we recognize the emerging importance of caring services such as ADL monitoring and remote monitoring, and seek to make you aware of these healthcare modifications. 
