Wearables Can Enhance, Improve Caregiving
Every caregiving situation is different, and every individual can require varying levels of care and monitoring depending on their physical and mental needs. It has been reported that 1 in 4 adults in the United States, or 61 million people, have at least one disability related to hearing, vision, cognition, mobility, self-care or independent living. Caregiving for someone with a disability can require 24/7 monitoring in some situations. And in others the individual receiving care may be more independent and may only need supplemental care. No matter the level of care required, medical wearables and devices such as mPERS (Mobile Personal Emergency Response) devices can benefit caregivers, nurses and family members.
There are many technological solutions that have been created to supplement or replace caregivers. Companies are going so far as to design sensors and cameras that can be installed in homes to monitor environmental conditions, movement within the home and to allow remote check-ins. But just like the old PERs systems that consisted of a pendant and speaker box, these systems are only useful within the home or wherever they have been installed.
By comparison, mPERS devices can monitor various data points ranging from vitals to location and fall detection anywhere. These devices can also provide a way to communicate without having to dial a phone. SOS buttons on the devices, or if an emergency situation is detected, can turn on two-way speakers so caregivers or nurses can check on the person with the device.
It is essential to make sure that when selecting an mPERS device that factors such as security and future technology upgrades are considered. Not all mPERS devices are created equal and it is vital to do research when selecting a device and service provider. Like any other connected technology, mPERS devices can be vulnerable to hacks and bugs.
For example, last year a security flaw in the design of some mPERS devices has security experts recommending they be recalled because they could expose real-time locations and let anyone remotely listen in by activating the built-in microphone. The Chinese-manufactured white-label location tracker that had these flaws was re-branded and sold by more than a dozen companies according to researchers at Fidus Information Security.
While it would be impossible to predict every security flaw that could possibly be detected in a device, or to know how creative hackers might exploit a device in the future, it is possible to identify if a manufacturer and service provider is dedicated to user security. Ask questions and make sure that a device provider is prepared to offer solutions in the future if an issue arises.
Before purchasing an mPERS device research any past security issues that have been reported online. Find out how the company dealt with the issue. This is a good indicator to know how any future security issues will be handled. A company that has no information about privacy or user security available is one that you will probably want to avoid.
Beyond the features of the mPERS device, professional caregivers and family members comparing these devices need to also consider the technology in the device and the platform on which the device operates. Research any previous recalls, security breaches, find out how often the software will be updated and if the hardware will be replaced if the device becomes obsolete. Research into the quality and customer service that comes with a device will help ensure the best device is selected. Also, caregivers should be proactive and reach out to service providers every six to twelve months to find out if there are any device upgrades to be aware of, because technologies are always evolving, and a new device may be available that is a better fit to a care recipient or caregiver’s needs.
Caregiving will always be a demanding task for family members and professionals alike. However, technology can ease the burden. It will require research to find the right solution and verify that it will be a technology that can stand the test of time. But the work is worth the peace of mind mPERS can provide.