Over the next decade, the aging American population is expected to place increased demands on the U.S. healthcare system, which in return will be more demanding on their families. Thanks to new technologies and high-speed internet service, connected care will help bridge the divide between patient and doctor. Cox Communications is one company that is showing how this is possible through its Connected Independence demonstrations in cities like San Diego, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
Connected care is one component of Connected Independence, a home with high-speed internet and internet-enabled devices that gives seniors the ability to continue to live independently. It also offers family members peace of mind knowing their loved ones are safe, happy and thriving in their homes independently.
Over 10,000 Baby Boomers turn 65 every day. The generation that values choices and individual freedom is behind some of today’s most impressive and unprecedented innovations that allow them to stay in their homes, age in place, and achieve Connected Independence.
Connected Independence is based in part on telemedicine, a technology that has existed at least since the 1960s when it was used by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Today, telemedicine, or remote patient monitoring, helps bridge the divide between patient and doctor. Such services can be delivered through a medical clinic or, as is increasingly the case, at home.
But Connected Independence is also made possible by in-home connected devices, medical sensors, and monitoring apps. They’re what make a smart home “smart.” This patient healthcare information is then safely and securely transmitted using high-speed internet from one location to another for assessment and recommendations.
“Smart home technology can help families avoid the wrenching decision and the expense of moving an aging parent to an assisted living facility,” said Ryland Madison, director of product marketing, Cox Communications. “A connected home ensures seniors can continue their daily routine while maintaining – and even enhancing – their quality of life in their own home.”
Home health monitoring can be a real game-changer for older adults who are likely to live to 79 years of age or older. Consider that 90% of adults aged 65 and over want to remain in their homes as they move into the later stages of life, according to AARP research.
By connecting healthcare providers, caregivers, and families to innovative care services through the smart home environment, families can prolong quality of life at home and lower healthcare costs without sacrificing peace of mind.
Cox Las Vegas will conduct a Connected Independence demonstration in early-April. At least eight other such demonstrations are scheduled in Cox markets through the end of 2018.
