Technology in Health and Social Care: Supporting Independent Living

This paper explores the impact of technology on health and social care services, focusing on its role in supporting independent living for individuals with disabilities. It examines the benefits and limitations of assistive technologies, analyzes ethical considerations, and provides recommendations for supporting Jane, a case study individual with multiple health challenges, in her pursuit of independent living. The paper highlights the importance of technology in empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite their disabilities.

Contents
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1
Task 1.................................................................................................................................................1
2.3 Explain the impact of recent and emerging technological developments on services
andworkers of health and social care organization...........................................................................1
1.1 Explain how technology was used to support health and social care users to accessservices ,
which would enable them to live independently..............................................................................2
1.3 Explain the benefits of these technologies, equally to the service user as well as to
theorganisation.................................................................................................................................3
1.2 Analyse any potential barriers and limitations to the use of supportive technologies
forindependent living........................................................................................................................4
2.1 Explain any health and safety aspects that might be involved with the use of these
newtechnologies...............................................................................................................................4
2.2 Discuss any possible ethical issues or dilemmas that might occur in relation to their use..........5
Task 2.................................................................................................................................................6
3.1 Identify Jane’s specific needs in order to support Jane to liveindependently..............................6
3.2 Recommendation on how technology might support her independentliving arrangements......7
3.3 The usefulness of Technology for Jane and also other users of health andsocial care................8
Conclusion...........................................................................................................................................11
References...........................................................................................................................................13
1

Introduction
Independence is one of the basic human rights and is deserved by all. Being independent
not only refers to take own decisions but at an extent it refers to do things and perform task
for own self for daily routine and lead a normal life as a human and a social animal. Some
diseases limit individual’s functioning and restrict their independence to such a level that
they have to depend on other to spend their lives with ease. Health and social care today is
developing in the tangent that is exploring the angles where the independence can be
restored in such individual’s life by means of advancing technology and techniques. To
reduce the disability and change it to ability new interventions are developed and strategies
are built in health and social care to support independent living.
Task 1
2.3 Explain the impact of recent and emerging technological developments
on services andworkers of health and social care organization.
Healthcare has changed its face over years and past some decades can be characterized as
the rage of technological development in health and social care to improve the quality of life
of an individual seeking health and social care services. Technological support to support
independent living as well in health and social care diagnosis and prognosis as well the
treatment aspect has enhanced with time and has led to efficient base of services with extra
care and wide view towards quality preservation. In older times the diagnosis and prognosis
criteria depended on other aspects and the efficiency of medical diagnosis was not as in
today’s era (Gao, Li and Luo, 2015). Use of advanced technology has madeit easy to
diagnose different outcomes of the disease and also the treatment provided to it. The
assistive technology is a leading field today that allows individual to perform various
impaired functions of their body using assistive aids. The use of these aids has great impact
on workers and the services they provide in health and social care. Whenever there is a case
related to impaired functioning or physical ill function the health and social care services no
matter how good it still always lags on their end to provide complete satisfaction. When the
use of assistive technology is done the satisfaction level increases on the part of the user as
2

the independence aspect is restored and patient feels restoration of his self-esteem and
independent to perform the tasks and function for his own living. On the contrary the
impact on service user is that the organization will have low income targets as the aids will
provide self-assistive guidance to the patient and reduce the income source of the
organization (Ancker et al, 2011). The positive impact is that the user satisfaction and
education for the same will help the organization to maintain its mark and quality as per the
standards of care and enhance its state in public. Service provider on one hand with use of
these assistive aids will get more customer satisfaction and cooperation for various
interventions and a positive psychological state of the patient.in given case Sally is being
helped by various assistive aids that make her independent and help her reduce her time for
going to sessions and hospital visit and perform her tasks independently without much of
social care required.
1.1 Explain how technology was used to support health and social care
users to accessservices , which would enable them to live independently.
Services in health and social care over the years have worked in direction to provide
independent as well as quality health to the user that will not only help them in assisting
their lives by taking own decision but also help them restore their self-esteem and mental
health. It is important for the user to get the feeling of independence and live a normal life
as a basic necessity of life. As per Maslow triangle of needs independence and freedom with
health is basic necessity of human life and every individual seek it at some point of life
(Kumar, 2011). Disability causes individual to have a feeling that their lives will be under the
control of others and dependency will over power their routine. They are mostly unaware of
the new advanced technical aids that can help them to lead an independent life. There may
be lack of knowledge, lack of financial resources and access to the services. These factors
may restrain the user to use such aids that can restore their independence as well as help
them to perform the impaired function due to disability. As in given case Sally is being given
supervised aids to assist in her vision impairment as well lower limb dysfunction. The task
such as driving that require proper functioning of the body can be taught to disabled
individuals in todays’ times with help of the guiding aids as in given case. It will not only help
Sally to perform routine task but help her to modify her life according to the disabilities and
impairments she has developed yet still be independent and lead a normal life.
3

1.3 Explain the benefits of these technologies, equally to the service user as
well as to theorganisation
Advancing technology and assistive aids has emerged as a boon to medical profession as
well health and social care sector. It not only helps service user but also has benefits for the
organization and service provider.
Benefits to the service user - the most major benefit is highlighted that is restoration of the
independence and self-esteem of the individual that is beyond all other benefits these
technologies create in the user’s lives. It gives the user the ability to leads normal life and
accesses all the rights that every individual attains as a normal human without any
discrimination. The major drawback of being disabled is loss of social contact due to
reduced interactions and dependency on others. The use of these aids makes individual to
intact their social relationships and get socially involved and prevent social exclusion or
isolation. Disabled or such individuals who require social help become more vulnerable
towards harm and abuse, these aids protects such vulnerable individuals from any source of
harm and abuse from society. Change in behavioural and psychological tendency towards
care appears while use of these technologies is enforced. It also motivates the individual
and enhances the confidence in individual (Harris, 2010).
Benefits to the organization and user- improved IT support these days causes reduced
manual workload for paper work and reduces human error in practice. Use of assistive aids
helps reduced handling and manual handling accidents that could cause injury and bad
health to the provider of services. Better confidence level and restored independence allows
patient to cooperate well with the provider of services that makes the work less tedious for
the service provider making it mentally and psychologically safe and healthy.
As in given case if Sally would not been advised and provided with occupational therapies
and assistive aids her life would deteriorate with limited functioning and ill health. Providing
her with various equipment like a foot accelerator for left foot modified driving aids steering
knob and eye patch as well as the special keyboard and kitchen aids makes her lead a
normal life and perform routine tasks which could have been impossible with her impaired
functioning.
4

1.2 Analyse any potential barriers and limitations to the use of supportive
technologies forindependent living
The main barriers in any situation occur due to either improper access or knowledge or
financial insufficiency to afford it. In accessing the assistive aids that will help people with
various disabilities to lead a normal life there is improper resources and information
available for the people. Majority of the individuals with disability do not have knowledge
that such devices and technologies are also part of world now that can make their life better
and independent. Inadequate knowledge gives rise to negligence and adoption of other
methods of care that enables one to lead a dependent life. Proper access to these devices
and technologies is another criterion that present as a barrier in its usage. The remote areas
in various countries are deprived of technologies that the world are using today and even
some nations are developing but are under developing range to support such technological
support to help people with disabilities to lead an independent life(Herrera-Saray et
al,2013). Another barrier is the expenses of the devices that are developed for supporting
independent living for such individuals. The high expenses of these devices make it
impossible to be utilized by every individual without good financial resources. As in given
case Sally is being provided with the assistive aids such as left leg accelerator and special
personal reminder device these devices costs high and extract a huge amount of resources
from an individual. Other major barrier includes the issues with handling and service of
these devices. The issues arising with the improper handling and incompetency with the
systems of such devices is a great hindrance in utilization of technology for independent
living. Old age, illiteracy and some factors such as cultural differences make it difficult for
the person to accept new changes in their routine and allow these devices to be utilized
completely.
2.1 Explain any health and safety aspects that might be involved with the
use of these newtechnologies
According to health and safety regulations it is important that the advanced technology is
provided to the individual under its safety considerations and the individual at health and
social care should be protected from the ill hazards of these new devices and technologies
used. Various safety rules should be followed these include safety from devices in every way
5

and technology in every aspect. The use of electrical devices is higher in healthcare that
involves use of electricity while utilizing the devices so the electricity supply and safety
should be considered always before installing any device for the patient. Routine
maintenance and repair of the machine and devices is important as it will prevent any
mishappenings and allow the user to use the devices with complete safety and efficacy. Use
of X-rays is increasing with advancing healthcare modalities but the correct and safe dosage
of x-ray should be provided to patient and unnecessary exposure should be avoided (Hersh
and Johnson, 2010). The assistive devices that are given to the patients such as in given case
Sally is given driving aids these devices are mechanical and should be properly checked and
tested and also routine monitoring of these devices should be done to avoid any harm.
Sepsis and infection control is another major aspect of healthcare the devices such as insulin
pen and eye patches should be used single handily and not to be shared with any other
patient or anyone these instructions and proper advice should be provided and the use of
the devices should be encouraged as per the rules. In given case Sally is provided with an
eye patch for double vision proper instructions should be given for cleaning, storage and use
of the eye patch to avoid any harm.
2.2 Discuss any possible ethical issues or dilemmas that might occur in
relation to their use
Ethical dilemma refers to the confusion among an individual in health and social care
regarding the use of certain things or practicing particular thing. These dilemmas occur
every time with every individual in health and social care. Some ethical issues with the use
of any assistive devices and technology in healthcare can be the conflict between the
perseverance of human rights and use of some devices that will help in enhancing the
quality of life. These conflicts can arise in the minds of either healthcare provider or
healthcare user. To overcome such dilemmas proper supervised and informed team work is
important and decision making that serves the best interest of the user is the solution in
most of the cases. Training and education is important to avoid such dilemmas and enhance
the effective working of the technological aids and increase in quality of life of an individual.
In given case Sally is being provided with the PDA that is electronic device that is used to
feed the reminders and help her remind her routine and daily tasks. This device may hold
the most sensitive and private information of her life and may create dilemmas for its usage.
6

The exposure to such information may violate the data protection and confidentiality rule
under The Data Protection Act, 1994 (Perkins, 2014).
Task 2
3.1 Identify Jane’s specific needs in order to support Jane to
liveindependently.
In given case the patient is having difficulties with her mobility and also has learning
disability with chronic diseases such as diabetes and epilepsy that has led her to suffer a
heart attack some time ago. Her wish is to live in her flat independently after being
diagnosed with all these diseases and disorders. To lead an independent life there has to be
made certain modifications in her lifestyle and dwelling place to utilize the advanced
technology and assistive aids to support her in her independent living. As the patient is not
able to perform her daily chores due to reduced and limited mobility and a heart disease
that is chronic and enhancing in nature, she requires support not only from technological
aids and assistive devices but also manual help from social worker or nurse who can be with
her all the time and make sure she gets can live quality life (Galis, 2011). Epilepsy is
something that makes individual self-harming as during the epilepsy attack the individual
cannot help own self and someone has to support them. Use of whistle blowing technique
and othetr strategies will help in such condition. Use of special alarm bells to call the nurse
or help when she needs it or the use of sensor floors for her can reduce her risk of getting
hurt due to seizures. Even if she experiences any heart attack symptom she could call for
help with these assistive aids. Proper and balanced diet and medication is key for better and
longer life for Jane. Her medications should be given on time and she shouldbe provided
with the PDA device that can manage to make her remind her dosage and medication at
proper intervals. This device will also aid in her learning disability and dementia that is
caused due to it. To control diabetes the patient should be educated and provided with use
of insulin self-injectors that will help her maintain her sugar levels and control other
comorbidities (Foley and Ferri, 2012).
7

3.2 Recommendation on how technology might support her
independentliving arrangements.
Various technical advancements have made the human life easier and healthier with time.
In given case various new and advanced technologies can be intervened and implemented
to provide Jane a quality life and well-being. The recommendations for technological
support for Jane are as follows that will not only help her enhance her cognitive functioning
but also help her maintain independence in her life and lead a quality life. An automatic
wheelchair is a better assistive walking aid for the patient in given case. It will help to
increase mobility and achieve independence by allowing Jane to move as per she wants. For
monitoring of sugar levels use of glucometer is a better option as it allows home based
diabetes test for the person and allow one to achieve healthier life. Alarm bells can be used
to make sure she can call the domestic help whenever she requires or is in problem. Use of
PDA and other electronic remembering guides will help her with her learning aids and allow
her to make better decision for her routine and achieve independence (Baxter etal,2012).
Use of an insulin pen or injector for diabetes medication is essential in given case it will
allow the patient to manage her medication as per given prescription and not depend on
anyone to take her insulin dosage. For use in prevention of epileptic seizures use of wrist
watches and such sensor jewellery is important that will help in alarming the concerned
support nurse and authorities when a person gets seizure and needs help. Control over diet
is important feature that can be done by using electronic diet charts and self-motivation
strategies. Use of counselling sessions and self-advocacy is also essential. Modification such
as putting ramps, handles and slides over doors at her house is important to make it
protected for the patient (Bagheri and Goher, 2017).
8

(Insulin pen and a Glucometer).
(Online source- http://www.diabetesplan.org/what-is-an-insulin-pen/ ).
5
(Online source- http://wonderfulengineering.com/this-medical-smartwatch-is-capable-of-
predicting-seizures/ ).
3.3 The usefulness of Technology for Jane and also other users of health
andsocial care.
Today the technology has made great miracles come true in health and social care with help
of such technologies it is possible to make point diagnosis and provide better prognosis for
the individual who seeks health. Technology aids in enhancing the quality of life of an
individual and it also aids in providing better and efficient health and social care by the
provider. Technology has become such an integral part of health and social care that it has
been a part of consultation, diagnosis, treatment, record keeping, hospitality and overall
healthcare. The electronic data record system has been a revolution in health and social
care sector as it provider better options and ease in working for the healthcare providers. It
helps in managing data and keeping the records protected from human errors (Humble,
2016). This system not only provides data entry but it also provides storage, easy access and
protection from unauthorized disclosure under the Data Protection Act, 1994. Treatment
9

options are increased as technology is advanced and utilized as newer aids provide better
equipment and view for treatment of the deepest part of the body too.
In given case use of technology is important as the main focus of the case is to promote
independence and support independent living. To promote and achieve independent living
Jane should be provided with various aids for walking, learning, remembering and the
technologies that help her to perform tasks independently (Poonam and Nitika, 2017.) Use
of devices like insulin pen, PDA, electronic sensor mats, alarms and glucometer willenhance
the independent livingaspect and reduce the risks towards harm to the patient. When these
aids will work in restoring the independence and self-esteem of the patient it will eventually
help in promoting healthier psychology and mental health. This will increase the perspective
of individual towards health and flourishes the well-being of an individual (Kbar et al, 2017).
10

11

Conclusion
Technology as described is an integral part of health and social care in today’s time. Without
technical support healthcare cannot work effectively and even cannot deliver productive
services to the user. The use of technology has advanced the lives of disabled individual also
and to greater extent as it helps in restoring the self-esteem and self-confidence of the
individual. This assignment concludes that with various disabilities todays advancements
have searched some or the other aids that can restore the function for such individual and
help them to live independently.
12

13

References
Ancker, J.S., Kern, L.M., Abramson, E. and Kaushal, R., 2011. The Triangle Model for
evaluating the effect of health information technology on healthcare quality and safety.
Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 19(1), pp.61-65.
BAGHERI, A. and GOHER, K., 2017. ASSISSTIVE ROBOTIC WALKING DEVICES: A STATE OF THE
ART REVIEW. In Advances in Cooperative Robotics (pp. 45-51).
Baxter, S., Enderby, P., Evans, P. and Judge, S., 2012. Barriers and facilitators to the use of
high‐technology augmentative and alternative communication devices: A systematic review
and qualitative synthesis. International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders,
47(2), pp.115-129.
Foley, A. and Ferri, B.A., 2012. Technology for people, not disabilities: ensuring access and
inclusion. Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs, 12(4), pp.192-200.
Galis, V., 2011. Enacting disability: how can science and technology studies inform disability
studies?.Disability & Society, 26(7), pp.825-838.
Gao, Y., Li, H. and Luo, Y., 2015. An empirical study of wearable technology acceptance in
healthcare.Industrial Management & Data Systems, 115(9), pp.1704-1723.
Harris, J., 2010. The use, role and application of advanced technology in the lives of disabled
people in the UK.Disability & Society, 25(4), pp.427-439.
Herrera-Saray, P., Peláez-Ballestas, I., Ramos-Lira, L., Sánchez-Monroy, D. and Burgos-
Vargas, R., 2013. Usage problems and social barriers faced by persons with a wheelchair and
other aids. Qualitative study from the ergonomics perspective in persons disabled by
14

rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions.ReumatologíaClínica (English Edition), 9(1), pp.24-
30.
Hersh, M. and Johnson, M.A. eds., 2010.Assistive technology for visually impaired and blind
people.Springer Science & Business Media.
Humble, S., 2016. Exploring Effective Strategies to Improve the Treatment of Employees
with Disabilities (Doctoral dissertation, Northcentral University).
Kbar, G., Bhatia, A., Abidi, M.H. and Alsharawy, I., 2017. Assistive technologies for hearing,
and speaking impaired people: a survey. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology,
12(1), pp.3-20.
Kumar, R.K., 2011. Technology and healthcare costs.Annals of pediatric cardiology, 4(1),
p.84.
Perkins, W.J. ed., 2014. High technology aids for the disabled. Elsevier.
Poonam, P. and Nitika, N., 2017. Use of Computer Technology to Help Children with Special
Needs.International Journal of Advanced Research in Computer Science, 8(4).
15