In an aging population, more and more people will face the challenge of finding good care for their elderly loved ones. Often, this means the end of care in the family home, which is becoming more and more common as people live longer. With this in mind, people are looking into the possibility of telehealth sessions with the elderly that can help them to continue to live on their own without requiring constant supervision or personal visits from medical professionals. Here’s how telehealth sessions help the elderly stay independent in their homes while still getting some care when needed without having to move away from friends and family.
Accessibility
Golden-age adults can now remain in their care communities for as long as possible by communicating with doctors, nurses, and other medical staff online 2020. A study found that 74% of physicians preferred to communicate with patients over telehealth services rather than scheduling an in-person appointment. Consequently, elderly individuals living alone can enjoy life and feel comfortable and safe at home rather than feeling obligated to move into a more structured environment like a nursing home.
Privacy and Comfort
While technology has changed so much of our lives over recent years, we’re still creatures of habit, and some behaviors and preferences never change. Some older adults will only go to a face-to-face appointment if it’s necessary because they just don’t like that unfamiliar or unsettling feeling that comes with transitioning from their living room into a medical office. With telehealth, you get to stay in your senior living community and still get medical attention. Telehealth provides comfort to know that you can get seen by a professional without having to leave your home. Even better is how it gives you more privacy; your personal information isn’t on display for others at your doctor’s office or elsewhere.
Health and Safety
As you age, it’s increasingly important to have access to help when you need it. Telehealth appointments can be scheduled with local medical professionals to ensure that you are healthy and receiving adequate care. Similarly, remote check-ins are easy for family members or friends living far away to make sure loved ones are safe. In the case of a fall or illness, people can call in remotely for advice immediately rather than waiting for days for a visit, alleviating worry and ensuring that aging family members receive proper care promptly.
Convenience
With telehealth sessions, aging family members can talk to their doctors via video chat or phone calls. By doing so, they don’t have to visit their doctors’ offices as often, which can sometimes be an inconvenience. One can also schedule appointments online, so there’s no need to make travel arrangements. Rather than waiting in a crowded waiting room with sick people or traveling for hours to get to their appointment, they simply go about their day and communicate with their doctor when it’s convenient for them.
