Knowledge of Technology
Those who need technology to support everyday life and living, their loved ones and social and health care professionals do not have enough information about the possibilities of technology. There is no knowledge of what kind of equipment and tools exist, how they are used and where they are available. The use of technical aids in home care is low. The most common aid is still the security telephone.
The adoption of the technology is hindered by ignorance and ambiguities about the compatibility of devices and systems, as well as a lack of technical support and user training. If the service professionals do not have the whole thing under control, the technology will not meet those who need it either. The introduction of technical aids should be considerably accelerated in order to be able to secure adequate treatment and care for the disabled living in homes and to slow down the growth of municipal expenditures.
A person’s individual needs and life situation have a significant impact on which technology solution and service is suitable for them in supporting housing. The need for technology must be assessed in a user-oriented, timely and individual manner. The process of introducing technology starts from the need that the technology is supposed to support. Instead of the need for technology, we should rather talk about the need for services. A safety bracelet is not useful if it sounds an alarm, but you still don’t get help (service). A digital door opener is of no use if you have not received instructions for use and do not know how to use it. In order for the technology to function flawlessly, functioning telephone and data networks are also needed.
When assessing the need for service and technology, in addition to functional capacity, individual factors such as gender, age, experience and mental strengths must be taken into account. Individual factors and a person’s living environment can have a positive or negative effect on their life and living conditions.
A professional or a multi-professional team well versed in the subject evaluates the need for technology and service together with the person who needs the service and possibly their loved ones. The choice of technology must be made in agreement with the customer or, if necessary, his relatives or relatives. The selection must also take into account the effects of technical solutions on the rights of the person, such as safety, privacy, participation and freedom of movement. A person’s right to self-determination must be supported. Some devices may require special consent from the customer. Such are the devices used to monitor a person, control movement or activity.