For today’s seniors, technology is always changing, especially with communications. The phone and the mail still work, but they are very different. The Internet is the basis for the growth of the “information age”. Modifying computer hardware and software adds web video conferencing to your communication options.
Now that healthcare is a major force in America, “Internet video conferencing is rapidly becoming essential to promoting independence for seniors at home,” says Greg Hartwell, co-founder and CEO of Homecare California. This technology is common in commercial and social settings, but less so for older people. As a growing communication option, Internet video conferencing promotes instant access, making medical assessments and management convenient.
The American Association for Retired Persons defines four challenges to the well-being of older people. These challenges include decreased memory, decreased mobility, decreased skills, and increased isolation. These video visits provide non-medical therapies for seniors with wellness issues.
Homecare California (HCC)
At just 6 years old, HCC is a leading provider of home health care for seniors in Northern California. Hartwell attributes his success to meeting a growing need for a growing population. A common problem for home health agencies is maintaining an effective balance between patients and staff. These video visits are the precursor to medical advances, favoring Telehealth and other remote medical services.
Why Internet Video Conferencing?
These self-help systems work well for patients who live alone, have adequate memory, have some computer skills, and have family support. HCC’s implementation of Internet video conferencing is just the beginning of a growing acceptance of this technology by home health agencies.
Benefits for the patient:
1. The self-help system for Internet video conferencing is very simple.
2. Video communication provides good value for the family and the patient.
3. Subscription fees are reasonable.
4. The system allows many other uses (education, stimulation, interaction).
5. The emphasis is on a safe, easy and portable setup.
6. Hardware, software, and Internet access are provided.
7. Minimal training is needed and provided.
HCC benefits:
1. The main advantage of video visits is to SUPPLEMENT, not replace, home visits.
2. The components are a desktop unit, embedded software, and Wi-Fi Internet access, so minimal setup is required.
3. These self-help systems are simple and easy to use, which means no staff is required.
4. For agencies, a reasonable investment and excellent profitability justify their income neutrality status.
5. The use of Internet video conferencing for unlimited email and family contacts is extremely attractive to both patients and families. This makes the system a unique and powerful marketing tool.
6. These systems are usually leased or subscription-based. This business model involves the outsourcing of business processes, therefore, minimal maintenance or technical support costs.
7. Outsourcing also means that hardware and software are automatically updated, so there are no obsolescence issues.
8. Patient users and their families receive additional training on the system.
9. Most importantly, after 3 years of use, the system pays for itself.
For more information on video visits and self-help systems, contact VVS.