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Last week we started our look at technology to help our loved ones improve their quality of life. We discussed some gadgets that can be found in a smart home to improve safety and security in the day to day routine. That post can be found here:
Healthcare is getting a tech makeover, making it easier for our grandparents and other older loved ones to see the doctor without even leaving their comfy chairs at home. This is all thanks to something called telehealth, and it's a game-changer for seniors who live at home. Let's jump in and learn all about it!
So, what exactly is telehealth? Think of it like as a virtual trip to the doctor via a video call. Instead of having to travel to the doctor's office, seniors can just turn on their computer or tablet and start chatting with their doctor face-to-face, right over the internet. It's super handy for regular check-ups or even if they're feeling sick.
Telehealth is really important for older folks. It means they don't have to worry about getting to the doctor's office, which can be tough if they have trouble walking or don't have a car. Plus, they get to stay where they're most comfortable – at home!
Telehealth keeps getting better and better, with lots of cool features to help seniors. There are easy-to-use apps and programs that let them see their doctor with just a few clicks. And the best part? They can keep all their health information in one place, so it's super easy to keep track of.
Doctors can also check on how seniors are doing with special gadgets that keep an eye on things like their heart rate or blood sugar. It's like having a mini doctor's visit without having to go anywhere!
For seniors dealing with long-term health stuff, like diabetes or high blood pressure, telehealth can be super helpful. They can talk to their doctor more often, which helps keep their health on track. Their doctor can give them tips, check their medicine, and answer any questions without anyone having to leave home.
This can help keep small health issues from getting bigger, and it means fewer trips to the hospital. Plus, seniors can learn more about taking care of themselves at home, which can help them feel better every day.
When we're talking about health stuff online, keeping information safe is a big deal. Telehealth programs work hard to make sure all the private health talks and records are kept secure, so no one has to worry about their information getting into the wrong hands.
But we also have to make sure that all seniors can use this technology, even if they're not super comfortable with computers. This might mean giving them special tablets or phones to use or making sure someone can come to help if they get stuck.
Telehealth isn't just about seeing your doctor. It can also be used by allied healthcare providers like physical and occupational therapists. With you or someone at home standing by with your loved one, a therapist can provided education and supervision with return to walking following a fall. Or making sure their homes are set up to be as safe as possible.
And as more people start using telehealth, things like insurance and laws will keep changing to make it even easier for everyone to get the care they need. This is great news because it means that our loved ones can look forward to even better care right from their living rooms!
So, that's the scoop on telehealth! It's making a big difference for seniors who want to stay at home and still get great healthcare. And for caregivers like us, it's a relief to know that help is just a video call away.
Be sure to come back next week as we take a look at wearable technology and how it can benefit our loved ones.
That's all for today.
Take care, keep mom safe at home and have a great day!
Winn
I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and have been working with the 70+ age group for over a decade. I will share my knowledge and experience to give you ideas to care for your aging parents. Read more >>