Smart Home Care System Reduces Emergency Admissions by 32% & Risk of Care Home Admission by 42%
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is facing immense pressure due to the growing aging population and the increasing prevalence of dementia. A significant challenge lies in admitting vulnerable individuals to A&E and keeping them in the hospital until a suitable care home or homecare support is arranged.
To address this issue, physiotherapist Louise Rogerson and data scientist Jonathan Burr have developed Howz, a smart home care monitoring system that aims to prevent falls and injuries by detecting subtle changes in a patient’s behavior. By utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), motion sensors, smart plugs, door sensors, and a hub, Howz allows carers to track energy consumption and movements within the home.
By establishing a baseline routine for each patient, the AI can identify early behavioral changes and signs of potential social care needs. For instance, if the electric kettle is not used in a day, it can trigger an alert, enabling social care teams and family carers to quickly respond to minor changes that may otherwise go unnoticed by conventional home care monitoring systems. This proactive approach can help prevent more serious accidents from occurring.
Installing the Howz system is quick and easy, taking only a matter of minutes. Carers and healthcare professionals can access the data instantly through the app, providing round-the-clock monitoring and a care dashboard for managing multiple patients. Privacy is a fundamental aspect of the system, with no personal data being collected. The main account holder has the ability to grant or revoke permissions for app users.
The results of implementing Howz have been remarkable. Emergency admissions have been reduced by 32%, and the risk of care home admissions has decreased by 42%. These figures demonstrate the significant impact that remote monitoring technologies can have in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of care for vulnerable individuals.
By harnessing the power of AI and innovative sensor technology, Howz is revolutionizing the way we deliver home care. It not only helps prevent emergencies but also promotes early intervention and support, ultimately enhancing the wellbeing and safety of patients. The system’s ease of use, real-time data access, and privacy features make it a valuable tool for carers, healthcare professionals, and families alike.
Howz is just one example of how AI is being integrated into healthcare to provide customized and timely interventions. From addressing conditions like Parkinson’s to improving mental health, AI-driven innovations are transforming the landscape of healthcare.
In conclusion, the use of Howz has proven to be a game-changer in reducing emergency admissions and the risk of care home placement. Its smart home care monitoring system, powered by AI and a range of sensors, allows carers to detect subtle behavioral changes and provide timely support. By employing this technology, the healthcare sector can alleviate the strain on the NHS and deliver better outcomes for the aging population. The success of Howz exemplifies the potential of AI-enabled solutions in revolutionizing healthcare delivery.
