Digital Literacy
Aug 21, 2024

Health Tech steps up to aid older adults globally, making aging in place and outpatient care easier

Health Tech steps up to aid older adults globally, making aging in place and outpatient care easier
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The pandemic highlighted the crucial role of health technology in supporting healthcare systems, especially with the growing shortage of medical professionals. As nearly 1 in 5 healthcare workers quit during the pandemic, the burden on those remaining intensified. To keep patients safe and ease the strain on medical professionals, many health organizations turned to telemedicine and health tech devices to monitor outpatient care.

As the global population ages, the demand for care will only increase. With fewer healthcare workers than in previous years, scalable solutions that utilize existing resources are essential. Health tech, including telemedicine and digital tools, offers promising avenues to fill this growing care gap.

Health Tech and Digital Tools for Outpatient Care

By 2035, over 21% of the population will be over 65, marking a significant shift in demographics. The majority of these individuals, 77% according to an AARP study, wish to remain in their homes as they age. Health tech makes this desire more achievable and affordable, offering practical solutions that align with the growing needs of older adults.

With such a large percentage of the population aging, healthcare providers must adapt to meet their needs. Internet and technology use among older generations is on the rise, with 91% of Gen Xers, 85% of Boomers, and 62% of the Silent Generation online. Virtual classes, like those offered by GetSetUp, are becoming invaluable tools in enhancing health literacy, managing chronic diseases, and providing support for aging in place. These classes allow for real-time interaction, enabling patients to ask questions, receive visual guidance, and connect with healthcare providers without the need for in-person visits.

Digital Tools and Virtual Classes Provide Preventative Healthcare

Preventative healthcare is crucial in managing the health of an aging population, and digital tools play a vital role in this effort. Multiple Medicare plans already offer virtual classes to their members, including GetSetUp’s interactive sessions on health and wellness, technology, and enrichment activities.

GetSetUp's classes, taught by peers, cover a wide range of topics, from using telehealth services and smartwatches to managing care at home. Virtual tools offer equitable learning and socialization opportunities, particularly for individuals with special needs or accessibility challenges, all from the comfort of their homes.

Health tech and digital resources, such as those offered by GetSetUp, are not just about convenience—they are about creating health equity. These tools provide the necessary support for aging in place, improve health literacy, and offer opportunities for better health outcomes. A significant number of GetSetUp users have reported fewer interactions with medical professionals since starting the program, indicating that these resources are making a real difference.

The opportunity to utilize digital resources to help seniors stay healthier, manage chronic diseases, and age in place effectively is immense. Healthcare providers must consider offering virtual classes and digital health tools as a standard practice, ensuring that the aging population has the support they need to thrive in their own homes.