Taipei City Hospital Launches Study to Show Effectiveness of Telecare in Transforming Dementia Care » Health » 24dash.com

Solutions from Tunstall Taiwan used in evaluation of home care for people with dementia

18 July 2008 - Taipei City Hospital Renai Branch, a specialist in dementia care in Taiwan, is to conduct a 6-month study of telecare technology in supporting people with dementia in their homes, using equipment from leading telehealthcare solution provider Tunstall.

The Hospital will provide 30 dementia patients with a range of telecare equipment for use in their homes. The study will evaluate how this enables users to live independently for longer, and reduce pressures on carers, by giving reassurance that risks are being effectively monitored and managed, with assistance immediately summoned when needed.

The telecare equipment, including Tunstall Lifeline home units, medication reminders, bed occupancy sensors, door exit sensors and other unobtrusive activity sensors, is linked to Tunstall Taiwans 24/7 response centre. This enables the Taipei City Hospital Renai Branch team to monitor any potential issues in patients homes without interrupting normal daily living routines.

Tunstalls telecare solutions automatically alert the response centre or a carer if a possible risk is detected. For example, this helps prevent the patient coming to harm through leaving their home inappropriately, and being unable to return unassisted. It also manages risks associated with daily activities including cooking, walking around or household security.

James Buckley, Tunstall CEO said: Telehealthcare is transforming care services for those with long-term needs, worldwide. It gives patients and carers greater independence and more control over their lives, as well as vital peace of mind. It also helps to reduce the pressure on hospitals by cutting avoidable admissions. The Taiwanese Government is leading the way in addressing the issues of an ageing population, and we are delighted to be working with Taipei City Hospital to show how these solutions deliver preventative, enhanced community-based services.

Over 9.7% of the population of Taiwan is currently aged over 65. Within the next 20 years this figure will double, meaning there is urgent need for alternative care solutions to assist the growing demand for community care.

Taipei City Hospital Renai Branch is a leader in dementia care in Taiwan, with a dedicated clinic and staff comprising neurologists, nurse practitioners, social workers, clinical psychologists, dieticians and occupational therapists. The dementia section of the clinic was founded in October 2005.