The SCAN Foundation

Falling in the home or in a care facility all too often leads to injuries or hospitalization for older people and the ultimate loss of independence, requiring costly long-term services and supports. Preventing falls can prevent injuries and assure a continued independent lifestyle. New technology, such as the use of electronic sensors, offers hope for reducing the rate of falls and injuries, according to a November 7, 2009 story in the New York Times.

While electronic devices and systems are helpful in many settings, “in long-term care they may be particularly pronounced,” according to a June 2009 study, “Understanding the Costs and Benefits of Health Information Technology in Nursing Homes and Home Health Agencies: Case Study Findings" by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) has proposed legislation to create a federal alert system similar to the AMBER alert system, to help track down people suffering from dementia who have wandered away from their homes, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities.

Surveys show declines since the 1990’s in the need for help with personal care, such as bathing and toileting, among people who required long-term services and supports. There is an increased use of equipment called assistive devices, making possible a decline in personal help.