New Technology to Help Keep Vulnerable Adults Safe in their Homes
VULNERABLE adults in Reading who choose to live independently at home, and their families, could soon have added peace of mind thanks to the introduction of new technology being trialled by the Council.
With people increasingly wanting to live independently for as long as possible in their own homes, Reading Borough Council is keen to explore new available technology which, if successful, could help enhance residents wellbeing and keep them safe at home for longer.
The Independent Living Technology Enabled Care (TEC) pilot project helps residents live safely in their own homes with the use of sensors to monitor activity and provide notifications when changes are detected.
Working with providers Howz and Lilli, officers from the Council's Digital Technology and Change service, Adult Social Care, and Housing teams install sensors in participants' homes which collect information on daily routines, such as sleep patterns, bathroom visits, and meal preparation. Once standard patterns are established after two weeks, the system can generate notifications if any deviations from these patterns occur, such as increased bathroom visits during the night or a decrease in signs of meal preparation. Family members can access a friends and family app.
The aim of this project is to evaluate the impact of sensor technology, particularly for individuals who have been discharged from the hospital or are living with long-term health conditions.
The pilot is currently underway, with several residents already participating. Early data from the project has proven to be valuable in informing decision-making, and participants have expressed feelings of reassurance knowing that the system is in place. Staff have been able to use the data to provide appropriate support to residents, facilitating their continued residence in their homes.
The Council’s Adult Social Care team recommends residents who may benefit from this new technology according to their individual circumstances. Residents or families, interested in finding out more can do so here >
Cllr Paul Gittings Reading Borough Council’s Lead Member for Adult Social Care, said
"Residents continue to tell us their preference is to live independently at home for as long as they are able to, including after they are discharged from hospital. As a result, the Council has a ‘home-first’ strategy in place and we are now keen to develop that further by piloting new technology which have real potential to enhance the quality of life and independence of vulnerable residents in our communities”.
“This pilot project is helping the Council to provide personalised and preventive services that empower individuals and their families. By embracing technology and investing in the wellbeing of our residents, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, no matter what their personal circumstances are.”