Senior citizens, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are at higher risk of falling seriously ill when infected with the coronavirus. This means that the elderly need special care and attention, especially during this period. There has never been a better time to embrace digital healthcare than now.
Here is a guide on how digital healthcare can help the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Telemedicine
Telemedicine is the practice of providing health care services to individuals remotely. Doctors can provide consultations and treatment to the elderly from the comfort of their homes. This will eliminate the need for travel, thus enabling seniors to practice social distancing. Having limited contact with people reduces their chances of getting coronavirus or COVID-19.
Real-time communication through video conferencing software such as Skype and Zoom enables doctors and specialists to assess the patient’s condition and recommend treatment. Additionally, doctors can also check the blood pressure and sugar levels of an elderly patient.
Studies show that the elderly are susceptible to chronic conditions that require treatment by specialists such as psychologists and psychotherapists. For some people, gaining physical access to these specialists might be a problem because they are not available in each community. Telemedicine eliminates this challenge, particularly during coronavirus pandemic.
- Health and Care Apps
Some numerous cloud-based programs and apps allow one to keep electronic medical records, databases, billing information, and medical charts. One can access and update the information provided they have a laptop or smartphone. Health care facilities and daycare providers have adopted this technology. Through adult day care software, the providers can save time and focus on taking care of their clients as opposed to checking through piles of paper files.
If you are taking care of an elderly loved one, you can also save vital information such as the medications they are taking, any change of symptoms, the next doctor’s visit on the software.
You can also use your smartphone or tablet to check out reliable information on taking care of senior citizens during COVID-19. It is essential to get updates on coronavirus from reliable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.
- Medical alert systems
An older person can fall and get life-threatening injuries. Also, they have higher chances of getting medical emergencies related to underlying medical conditions. This is where medical alert systems come in. This system comes with a wearable call button that one can dial when they need help. The system connects them to a dispatcher who can contact their loved one or get emergency help if the situation calls for it.
This system can monitor seniors, whether they are at home or out and about.
- Wearable medical devices
One of the ways you can take care of your elderly relative is to get them a wearable medical device. You need a device that can monitor their health and alert you in case they have a medical problem.
This technology is available in the form of belts, watches, and shoes. They can monitor one’s blood pressure, heart rate, and even track their location, which you can see from your smartphone.
Knowing that you can monitor your elderly loved one will put both of you at ease.
Additionally, seniors will feel more confident to engage in physical activities, which is great for their health.
Final Thoughts
We are all doing our best to stay safe during this coronavirus pandemic. Digital healthcare might be what you need to keep your elderly relatives safe and in good health. With the several options outlined in this guide, you will get one or more that suit you.