The use of assistive technology for people who live with their care giver

Assistive technology provides support to monitor, enhance independence and reduces potential risks within the home through a package of sensors linked to ‘care assist’, a messaging system, which relays information to a carer if sensors are activated and indicate that an event may have occurred which requires a carer to respond.

This article is based on an evaluation of the use of assistive technology and telecare in Shared Lives placements, and whether participants found it beneficial. Carers suggested that having someone to install and advise on the telecare package was crucial to giving them confidence in the equipment. Findings, based on data collected from a small number of participants, suggest that equipment gave care givers peace of mind and enabled care to be sustained for longer. The discreet use of sensors also gave a greater sense of a normal family life. Carers also indicated that they might consider supporting someone with more complex support needs, as telecare ensured the person was monitored at night and that their needs could be met in a more timely manner. Telecare was also cost effective in comparison to an alternative residential care home placement. The findings suggest telecare could be considered as a creative solution to support carers and enable people to remain in their Shared Lives home for longer.