What is Remote Monitoring for Caregivers?

If you have elderly family and friends you might be looking for ways to keep an eye on their well-being. One of the easiest ways to do this is through remote monitoring. This blog explains what remote monitoring is, how it can benefit those limited in mobility, and even help them safely age in place.

What is remote monitoring?

Remote monitoring is when someone uses technology to check in on someone else or keep an eye on their loved ones, who may be living at home or in assisted living facilities. Remote monitoring systems can include using technology to check on the well-being of someone who is living in an assisted living facility or at home. These systems typically include motion sensors, video cameras, and other devices that send data back to you by text or email so that you can monitor your aging family member more easily. It's often used to monitor someone whose safety is a concern so that care can be delivered when it's needed the most.

What are some common remote monitoring devices and apps that keep seniors safe?

Remote monitoring can be done through various devices and apps that track vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate. They also allow seniors and their caregivers to see what’s going on at any time, even if they aren’t there in person. Many of these devices are small and portable, so they can be taken anywhere.

Some common remote monitoring devices include:

Blood pressure cuffs that connect to a smartphone app via Bluetooth. These cuffs are often worn around the upper arm or wrist and measure blood pressure using an inflatable cuff that fits snugly over your arm or wrist. Some models also measure pulse rate using two light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The cuffs measure your blood pressure by inflating as much as needed to obtain an accurate reading, then deflating automatically when the measurement is complete. Most of these cuffs transmit data wirelessly via Bluetooth to a smartphone app for monitoring.

Medical alert pendants and bracelets. These devices can be worn as jewelry or attached to clothing and will alert emergency responders if the wearer falls, has an accident, or experiences another medical event that requires attention. Some pendants also have GPS capabilities so they can be tracked down even if they're not wearing their device at the time of an emergency. 

There are pros and cons to each of these devices. Read my in-depth comparison between popular medical alert pendants here.

 GPS tracking systems. These devices allow caregivers to track their loved ones by following the movements of their car through a map displayed on their computer screen or smartphone. The system could be set up so that if a vehicle ever stops moving for more than five minutes, an alert will be automatically sent to everyone who is tracking it — letting them know that something went wrong.

Monitoring can provide reassurance to family members

One of the best parts about remote monitoring is that it allows you to keep an eye on loved ones from a distance. It’s certainly not uncommon for people who have limited mobility to have someone else in their lives who cares about them and wants to ensure that they are safe and doing well.

Remote monitoring can provide a sense of security for family members who may worry about whether their loved one is okay or not. If you know that there is an easy way for you to check in on your loved one every day, then it can help you feel more confident that they are okay.

The takeaway:

Remote monitoring technologies can help seniors live more independently while offering greater peace of mind to their loved ones. 

OK2StandUP is the first AI fall mitigation technology that caregivers remotely monitor older adults. It supports older adults to age safely in place for as long as possible. I invite you to visit www.ok2standup.com for more information.