[Use of telemonitoring by elders at home: actual practice and potential]

Abstract

Description: The use of telemonitoring services by elders is increasing. In this regard, occupational therapists have been recommending emergency call systems linked to a central monitoring system.

Objectives: This study sought to document the actual and potential uses of telemonitoring services with an elderly population in a home support context and the impact of these services on occupational therapy practice.

Methodology: To meet these objectives, a literature review on telemonitoring practices was completed and results were organized according to the Canadian Model of Occupation Performance.

Results: Evidence suggests that new technology and telecommunication is efficacious for monitoring elder's physical and cognitive components, and can have positive impacts on elders' affective component, and social, physical and institutional environment. In regards to monitoring occupations in the home, research and development is promising for personal care such as mobility, sleeping, medication and life routine follow-up.

Practice implications: The arrival on the market of new products for telemonitoring services will allow easy and continuous monitoring of elder's progress at home in a non invasive manner, and will enable quick intervention when there is a change in day-to-day occupations.