Residents can feel safe and get information through communication platforms.
During a crisis like the one we're going through now, people aren't always told what's going on, which can cause panic. Community leaders can use communication platforms to keep people informed and put their minds at ease.
Several digital tools make it possible for residents to get updates directly:
- Residents who are stuck in their rooms can get information from TV channels in their rooms.
- Mobile apps can give residents real-time updates that they can check on their own devices.
- Voice assistants can help people who can't use smartphones or tablets because they can't see well or don't have good motor skills.
All of these can be changed to fit the needs of a particular crisis. For example, Caremerge just added an Alexa integration that lets people ask their smart speakers, "Alexa, what are the latest updates about the Coronavirus in my community?" Alexa responds with the latest news from the community.
Communication platforms make it easier to manage care.
When an emergency interrupts regular care, the staff depends on communication with the community to figure out what to do next. Because of a lack of CNAs, many communities are short-staffed and overworked. This means that caregivers need digital tools that can make their jobs easier right away.
Through app updates, people in charge of a community can quickly let staff know when care practices change. For example, Caremerge's app can tell staff right away that they need to wear protective gear during a COVID-19 outbreak.
Digital health platforms help staff keep track of changes in how they care for residents and avoid miscommunications:
- Electronic health records (EHRs) help staff keep track of reporting incidents, planning care, and putting residents in the right rooms.
- Electronic health records (EHRs) and electronic medication administration records (eMARs) work together to make residents' medication tasks easier.
If a resident is hospitalized, EHRs can make it easier for them to get to and from the emergency room and help staff keep an eye on them as they get better. Also, eMARs can keep track of changes to medications or follow-up care plans after a hospital stay, so staff know what they need to do to help residents get better.
Communication platforms give people peace of mind about those they care about.
Communication platforms allow family members to get clear, consistent, and safe messages from the senior living community where their loved one lives. Family members may want updates every day or every week.
When there is a crisis, having these tools and routines in place makes everyone feel less stressed. When there is a set way for family members to talk to each other, everyone knows where to go to get information and reassurance.
Even if visitors aren't allowed, distance shouldn't stop people from talking to each other. Caremerge's platform for getting families involved lets staff tell residents' families about what's going on in the community and how their loved one is doing.
Caremerge also makes sure that messages with family members about residents' sensitive medical information are HIPAA-compliant.
Communication brings people together during a crisis.
We can't stop hurricanes or the spread of a new disease, unfortunately. Senior living providers can, however, take steps now to make sure that their communities are ready to keep residents, staff, and loved ones safe and in touch in case of emergencies in the future.
These days, you can't do that job with phone calls, emails, or bulletin boards. Leaders need technology solutions that can be scaled up and used to get important messages to the right people quickly.
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