Lincolnshire residents were asked about their views on using technology to help maintain independence and manage care and support needs.
“We’re looking at how county councils can use technology to support residents with social care needs,” said adult care and public health executive member Wendy Bowkett. “Technology is proving to be an increasingly important tool in helping people maintain independence while reassuring families and carers that their parents and aging relatives are safe and well at home.”
“Using technology can be difficult for people to understand, so we want to know how we can help people in this situation. We want to improve access to technology that helps people, and your input will help us shape these changes for the future. So give us your feedback – just answer the questions in the quick survey.
Technology is supporting many of the county’s older and vulnerable populations, but there is potential to do even more and contribute to people’s health and wellbeing.
A great example from Ken and Lois Green of how a new, non-intrusive surveillance system can be successful. The couple, from Normanby by Spital, were among the first in the county to trial the “Howz” system, which allows them to continue living independently at home.
Lois explains: “The main difference in having this system in our house is that it gives Ken and I peace of mind and my son and daughter-in-law. They can look at the app on their phone and they can see immediately if we wake up properly, or even Have you turned on the kettle for tea. So we’re safe in our own homes, but we don’t have any invasive cameras.”
The system works through multiple monitors that establish a pattern of behavior. If, for any reason, there is no movement in the house or a change in normal patterns, family members will know something may be wrong.
