Striking the right balance: Harmonising technology and human connection in UK care settings
In today's rapidly advancing technological era, it’s essential to strike a balance between embracing the benefits of new technology and maintaining the invaluable human connection within care settings.
On 26 May 2023, we attended Liverpool Care Roadshow and heard from a host of fantastic speakers on the current state of care, the important role of technology, as well as updates on the future of the CQC.
What really struck us was that, while technology offers huge advantages, it should always be leveraged to enhance, rather than replace, the crucial element of human interaction.
Advancements such as electronic health records, remote monitoring systems, and telehealth solutions enable caregivers to access up-to-date patient information, track health conditions, and provide remote assistance, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care.
The human touch, however, is irreplaceable. Genuine human connection fosters emotional support, empathy, and understanding, which are vital for individuals' well-being. Caregivers must prioritise spending time with patients, engaging in meaningful conversations, and actively listening to their needs and concerns. But with over 165,000 care vacancies across the UK, teams are stretched, so how do you decide which technologies will have the most impact on both productivity and care provision?
With care playing a vital role in supporting individuals' wellbeing, finding this equilibrium is of utmost importance. So with that in mind, we take a look at four ways care settings across the UK can do just that.
Train and educate
To strike a balance between technology and human connection, it is crucial to provide comprehensive training and education to care providers. This training should encompass both technical skills and interpersonal communication. Caregivers should be adept at using any new technology effectively, ensuring they can utilise digital tools to enhance their care provision.
Tailor technology to individual needs
Each individual has unique requirements and preferences. When integrating technology, it is essential to tailor its use to meet the specific needs of each person. This personalised approach ensures that technology complements human connection rather than overshadowing it. For instance, some individuals may benefit from video calls with loved ones, while others may require remote monitoring devices to manage their health conditions. By customising technology solutions, care providers can strike the right balance for individual patients.
Pilot test
Before fully implementing new technologies, consider conducting pilot tests in a controlled environment. Select a small group of residents or staff members to try out the technology and provide feedback. Pilot testing helps identify potential challenges, fine-tune implementation processes, and assess the technology's effectiveness. It allows for adjustments and modifications to be made based on real-world experiences.
Clearly define objectives and engage key stakeholders
Care homes should have a clear understanding of the specific challenges or areas for improvement they aim to address through technology adoption. Whether it's improving resident safety, enhancing communication, or streamlining processes, having well-defined goals will guide the evaluation process.
Throughout, it’s important to engage all relevant stakeholders, including care staff, residents, families, and IT professionals, in the evaluation process. Each group has unique perspectives and requirements. Consulting and involving them from the early stages will ensure that the technology selected meets their needs and garners their support. Their input can provide valuable insights into the practicality, usability, and potential impact of the technology.
Talk to us
Striking a balance between technology and human connection in care settings is a delicate but vital task. By embracing technology while prioritising human interaction, the care industry can benefit from improved efficiency, enhanced access to information, and increased well-being for individuals receiving care.
We’d love to discuss how Aquarate can not only improve hydration in care homes, but also improve productivity in the workplace, by automatically logging all fluid consumption. Get in touch today to learn more about our revolutionary approach to hydration and book a free demo.