As the new year kicks off, CDW Healthcare experts Jessica Longly and Liz Cramer have published “3 Senior Care Tech Trends to Watch in 2023” in HealthTech. CDW Healthcare is an Associate Business Partner with CAST Focus. The trends they identified touch on engagement, workforce issues, and technology infrastructure.

1. Voice and Video Provide Engagement and Connection for Older Adults

The authors expect a rise in use of voice and video technologies that enable older adults to stay in contact with loved ones and to use smart home technologies.

In particular, older adults are using Amazon Echo Show, Meta Portal and FaceTime on Apple iPad devices to connect with others and to access event calendars.

Voice and video technologies also allow older adults to better control their home environments. The newly released Matter 1.0 standard and certification program will make it easier to integrate smart home and Internet of Things devices. This evolution “will likely lead to further adoption as the smart home market matures,” wrote the authors.

2. Automation, Robotics, and Sensors Mitigate Staff Shortages

Using automation for documentation systems and robots for dining rooms can help attract and retain staff. The authors predict increased use of assistive robots in assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care.

They expect use of passive sensor technology will increase, especially in falls prevention. Adding artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to sensors adds another layer to fall prevention capabilities. Sensor technologies such as smart toilets and urinary incontinence devices that measure dryness also save staff time.

3. Continued Growth in Technology Adoption by Older Adults

Network infrastructure upgrades and tech concierges will help support residents’ increased adoption of technologies.

The LeadingAge CAST case study “Supporting Residents’ Technology through In-House Support Program” shows you how a tech concierge can help residents adopt devices like Amazon Alexa and Apple Watch.

In addition, the CAST Resident/Client Technology Support and Training White Paper and Guide offers detailed support, training, and business models for providing resident/client technology support.

Implementation Tips and New CAST Resource

The authors pose an important question for organizations weighing new adoptions: “When considering technology solutions, organization leadership also needs to make sure the technology solves a problem for staff members or residents. Will it bring joy to an older adult and help build census?”

The authors suggest creating a committee of stakeholders affected by the new technology, seeking their input throughout the process, and encouraging technology champions.

The newly released Digital Transformation in Aging Services guide by LeadingAge CAST can help you address overarching questions about implementing new technologies.