Demand for elder care is steadily increasing as more baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 reach the age of 65. According to a Population Reference Bureau report, the percentage of the American population over the age of 65 is expected to double by 2060. This has serious consequences for the changing needs and demands of elderly care.
With the advancement of technology, novel healthcare approaches such as telehealth, also known as telemedicine, have come to the fore. While one of the first instances of telehealth in America dates back to the 1950s, it has only recently gained traction. It aims to make healthcare more accessible to older adults while also reducing the workload of frontline healthcare workers.
Adults between the ages of 50 and 64 are the more likely to use virtual healthcare services, according to a study conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). In fact, from 2020 to 2022, telehealth was the preferred form of healthcare for many older adults.
Here are some of the reasons why, even while residing in a senior living community in Corrales, NM, some seniors may prefer the convenience of telehealth.
Difficulties in Keeping Appointments
As per a report by the Administration of Aging (AoA), 27% of the older adults (65+) residing in retirement communities lived alone. This suggests that many older adults may not have a family member or spouse on whom they can rely for regular healthcare appointments and visits. Many of these older adults may also have mobility issues or other cognitive or mental ailments such as anxiety or depression, which may prevent them from seeking necessary healthcare.
Most senior adults find it difficult to keep regular doctor’s appointments and travel to long-distance clinics for routine health checks. Several retirement communities now provide convenient transportation options so that your loved ones can keep regular medical appointments; however, for minor health issues, virtual healthcare service is both convenient and practical.
Remote-patient Monitoring
Family members with more serious health issues may be concerned about hospitalization. They may also be concerned about losing their independence as they age. However, critical aspects of healthcare, such as medical management, are now possible with telehealth services. Remote patient monitoring enables older adults to communicate with their healthcare providers from their community in real-time. Care providers can review any medication changes resulting from critical changes (glucose spikes or deviations in vital signs) detected by remote medical devices.
Fewer Hospital Visits
In times of medical emergency, telehealth can be a significant medical blessing. This is especially true for family members who live in Senior Assisted Living facilities or retirement communities. Rather than dealing with the difficult aspect of the resident’s transportation to a medical facility, community caregivers and skilled nurses can connect virtually with medical experts and consult with them for any urgent care they may require.
Seeking inpatient care at this time may be life-threatening as it exposes the resident to infections and other risks. Early telemedicine intervention with virtual access to specialized medical staff can help them receive timely care while significantly reducing transportation costs.
Telehealth can encourage residents in senior living to live more worry-free and independent lives. They can rest easy knowing that accessible medical care is only a click away.
