Older adults live independently longer when monitored by care team and technology

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-12/uom-oal120715.php

Public Release: 7-Dec-2015
Older adults live independently longer when monitored by care team and technology
University of Missouri-Columbia

Finding ways to help older adults "age in place" has been a focus of researchers at the University of Missouri for more than a decade. Now, a new study shows their work at TigerPlace, an independent living community that uses sensor technology and onsite care coordination to maintain residents' health, is successful.

Researchers found TigerPlace residents stayed longer than seniors who live in other senior housing across the nation. Additionally, residents who lived with sensors in their apartments stayed at TigerPlace the longest. Length of stay is important because it indicates that residents' health remains stable enough for them to continue living independently rather than transferring to an advanced-care facility or a hospital. The technologically enhanced care coordination at TigerPlace could serve as a cost-effective care model for improving the health and function of older adults whether they live in senior housing, assisted living, retirement communities or their own homes.

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