Improving caregiving through technology

In a recent study by CareLink Advantage with over 600 respondents, results found that:

• 70 per cent of respondents use technology to coordinate care (making appointments, sharing care among family members, organizing transportation or services)
• 90 per cent of respondents use technology to keep in touch with friends and family
• 70 per cent use digital apps and technology to better understand the health conditions of the person they are caring for
• Almost 50 per cent of caregivers who live at a distance use technology to manage care

As many of us know, a single internet search can be overwhelming and can lead to many “rabbit holes.” There are so many digital solutions available; it’s hard to know where to start.

One of the best places for caregivers to begin is by identifying how they want technology to support them. A few options to consider:

• The health and well-being of the caregiver
• Connection to sources of support for either the caregiver or the care recipient
• Access to Telehealth, coupled with other monitoring tools to manage the health and well-being of their loved ones
• Organizing/coordinating health-care appointments and access to health-care providers
• Improving the safety and well-being of the care recipient
• Improving communication among the care team
• Staying connected to loved ones
• Supporting regular chores and time management

Do your due diligence when checking out a website or application. One way is to check to see if an unbiased professional or expert has given feedback or ratings.

Another strategy is to look for feedback from other caregivers.

Before downloading an application, go back to how the app can support what you are already doing off-line. Consider how well the application solves a specific problem or challenge for you. Test it out prior to paying full price. Most apps offer a free or trial version.

With anything new in life, there is always a learning curve. Technology can feel scary; however, many caregivers find their lives and well-being improve with its use.

Our family relies on it; it makes us feel less isolated from each other and from our aging loved one. It also helps us stay informed, connected, and makes certain parts of caregiving a little easier!

Wendy Johnstone is Provincial Program Consultant and Gerontologist with Family Caregivers of BC. This article was originally published in Inspired 55+ Lifestyle Magazine and was reprinted with permission.

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