How Technology Can Help Seniors Stay Healthy

By Dr. Kyle Magee, Regional Medical Director, CenterWell Senior Primary Care

Gone are the days of sporadic medical care provided in the confines of a hospital or healthcare facility. Today, digital health technologies like telehealth and medical alert devices bring healthcare directly to seniors, empowering them to take charge of their health and wellness regardless of location.

Health-monitoring technology such as wearables, apps, and medical alert devices empower seniors to age in place, improve their quality of life, and engage in their health and wellness on their own terms. These technologies also enable loved ones and caregivers to better understand the health status of seniors, especially in between doctor visits or when being present in a senior’s home is not possible.

Moreover, as the accessibility of new technology and telecommunication programs improves, seniors are more likely to remain physically active, maintain social connections, and prevent chronic health conditions prevalent in the community such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Health-monitoring devices can also benefit seniors by:

● Monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, and other medical conditions.

● Increasing access to care via telehealth.

● Facilitating a call for help in the event of an emergency.

● Avoiding medical emergencies with healthcare providers monitoring vital signs remotely.

● Notifying caregivers of a fall or missed medication.

From wearables and mobile apps to assistive devices and medical alert systems, there is no shortage of health-monitoring technologies available for seniors to stay safe, healthy, and independent.

Health-monitoring devices to choose from include, but are not limited to:

● Digital pill dispensers. These tools are helpful for those who live alone or have dementia or Alzheimer's disease as the device sounds an alarm, notifying when it’s time to take medications and dispenses the correct dose.

● Telehealth. Internet access from a computer, tablet, or smartphone enables connection to healthcare providers from the comfort and safety of home.

● Fitness trackers. Wearables help to monitor heart rate, track step count, and encourage physical activity.

● Medical alert systems. Wearable devices such as wristbands and pendants equipped with GPS tracking connect users with emergency response providers with a press of a button.

● Remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices. Pulse oximeters, ECGs, glucometers, and the like enable real-time understanding of a patient’s disease state, allowing healthcare providers to monitor and analyze their patient’s chronic conditions outside of a clinic setting.

Health-monitoring devices empower seniors to take charge of their health, maintain independence, and stay connected to loved ones and their doctors, no matter the place or time. While some seniors may embrace this new and emerging technology, others may not be as forthcoming. No matter how advanced healthcare technology gets, hesitant seniors can take comfort in knowing that it’ll never fully replace in-person care at CenterWell. Whether seniors wish to stay home or visit us face-to-face, our “centered on you” approach to health will always remain the same.

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If you or someone you know is Medicare-eligible and searching for a senior-focused primary care doctor, CenterWell is all about giving our patients the time, attention and care they deserve. To find out more about CenterWell locations in your area, call 504-294-8761 or visit us at www.SeniorFocusedLouisiana.com .