Telehealth Services For Seniors

Healthcare for seniors has come a long way. Not only has medical technology allowed us to live longer, healthier lives, it has also allowed us to manage our health in ways that we never thought to be possible. For those who are caring for aging parents or elderly loved ones, it can be overwhelming. However, thanks to telehealth services, caregivers now have an easy way to access medical care for their loved ones than ever before. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Telehealth?

Telehealth, also referred to as telemedicine, is a way for patients and healthcare providers to communicate digitally. Through telehealth, doctors can diagnose and treat patients from a distance. 

Common Types of Telehealth

• Real-Time (Synchronous) – Synchronous telehealth can be described as real-time communication between the patient and doctor. For your real-time doctor’s appointment, all you need is an internet connection, microphone, and webcam.
  
• Store and Forward (Asynchronous) – Store and forward telehealth services use a secure platform in which healthcare providers can share medical records and data with their patients, as well as other healthcare specialists as needed. The data can be viewed at any time for all authorized parties without having live communication.

• Remote Patient Monitoring – Also known as RPM, this allows healthcare providers to track vital signs by using sensors, cameras, and other devices. Typically RPM is used to monitor high-risk patients. 

The Benefits of Telehealth

Using telehealth has the following benefits for seniors:

• Reduces unnecessary hospital visits.
• Minimizes medical and travel costs.
• Increases access to care.
• Increases patient and family member support.
• Increases patient access to doctors and specialists (especially for those who live in remote areas).
• Minimizes appointment wait times.
• Limits the patient’s exposure to germs or viruses that may be present in physician waiting areas.
• Prescriptions can be filled easier.

Before using telemedicine, speak to your loved one’s primary care physician to confirm that it’s right for them. 

Contact The Arbors Assisted Living

The Arbors Assisted Living community encourages and supports seniors to live a healthy life. When it comes to your loved one and their healthcare, our wellness team of highly trained Care Specialist and Medication Technicians can coordinate all physician and pharmacy services as well as provide support and hands-on care if needed. Contact us to learn more!