Recently, some graduates from Brown University made the news for pitching an idea that they hope will improve how senior care is applied–through the use of better data collection and usage.
These individuals have founded a new company, called Intus Care. They hope to look at healthcare data, and integrate a system that combines financial, medical, and administrative data all in one easy to access place. When this occurs, they believe that the quality of care that seniors receive will be better as there will be fewer question marks regarding what is needed, how it will be applied, and how it’s going to be paid for. These are often the big questions that arise in the care business. Using data points to streamline communication is a smart way to do this, as long as it is done in a responsible way that keeps private information secure and only accessible to the right eyes.
New uses of data have the potential to improve the care experience that seniors have.
Startups like Intus Care hold a lot of promise. When new technology helps improve care, we all eventually win as it means a better care experience for those that we love.
Data has long had an impact on senior care. For example, the anticipated impact of the Baby Boomer generation was known more than 20 years ago because data indicated that there would be a huge influx of seniors, and that the current care infrastructure was not enough to meet this need. Because of data, federal and state governments, care companies, and nonprofit organizations were able to take steps to build and improve the care provided so that the gaps that were predicted would not have the huge negative impact that was predicted. In many ways, this was able to help thousands of seniors that might have been lacking for adequate care otherwise. There’s still a long way to go here, but there have been many improvements along the way.
As technology changes and evolves, there is no doubt that the collection of data will continue to play a major role in the senior care industry. Most likely, this will center around smart technology, apps, and in-home and wearable technology. How this data will shape the future of senior care remains to be seen but there’s no doubt that the collection of data will inform how companies can better assist the elderly.
Data informs us when it comes to larger trends and nuances regarding senior care. It is wonderful when it comes to the big picture, but it can be lacking when it comes to the individual.
That’s where in-home care thrives. In-home care is given in a one on one setting so that the caregiver is able to more directly address the needs and wants of the person that they are helping out. Because it takes place in their home, caregivers are able to more directly meet the needs of the person receiving care since for many, their home already is meeting a lot of those needs. It keeps them placed in a familiar setting, but brings some extra help to them to help improve the quality of life that they experience.
If you’d like to learn more about how we might be able to help you and your family with this, please feel free to reach out. One of our trained professionals would be happy to talk more with you regarding this.
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