Source: CNA
Innovations in nursing home technology, such as delivery robots and smart glasses, are revolutionizing elderly care in Singapore. These advancements are not only saving valuable time for caregivers but also enhancing the quality of medical services provided to elderly residents.
One significant development is the use of self-guiding robots by NTUC Health, in Singapore, to deliver linen and meals within nursing homes. These robots can carry heavy loads and navigate autonomously, reducing the physical strain on nurses and saving thousands of man-hours. This automation allows caregivers to dedicate more time and attention to their elderly residents.
NTUC Health collaborated with Temasek Polytechnic in 2020 to develop self-guiding robots (Screen shot of CNA youtube video)
Additionally, a geofencing system has been implemented at Ren Ci nursing home to locate seniors with dementia quickly. When a resident with an RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag sewn into both their sleeves passes by the RFID reader, the system will trigger the alarm. Whenever residents wander into restricted areas, improving security and reducing the time spent searching for missing individuals.
A RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag is sewn into both residents' sleeves (Screen shot of CNA youtube video)
Ren Ci is also piloting the use of smart glasses for nurses. These glasses enable real-time transmission of what nurses see, allowing them to consult with experienced professionals and receive immediate guidance during home visits.
The smart glasses enable real-time communication of nurses in Ren Ci. (Screen shot of CNA youtube video)
The adoption of technology in elderly care is driven by several factors, including an aging population, increased financial resources among seniors, and rapid technological advancements. This trend is expected to continue, with more local businesses entering the market to address the needs of the growing elderly population.
As seniors become more digitally literate, barriers to technology adoption are diminishing, and user experience design is improving. Future developments in elder-care technology may focus on addressing social isolation, depression, and facilitating exercise.
Overall, these technological innovations are reshaping the landscape of elderly care, making it more efficient, effective, and tailored to the unique needs of senior citizens.
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