HEALTH & WELLNESS
Digital Technology to Assist Older Adults with Aging in Place By Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm
Ninety percent of the older adult population in the United States would prefer to age in their own home. There are challenges, but with new and upcoming technological advancements targeted at this age group, it will become easier to maintain this independence.
A
ging in place means having the ability to live in your own home and community comfortably, safely, and independently. You can maintain your social network, keep your pets, have friends and family over, and engage with your grandkids. There is a pronounced negative impact on moving from your own home, which can lead to serious health implications.
There have been health technology advancements in the last few years, targeting the older adult population and allowing them to age in place. Technologies, such as wearable sensors, smart phones, and telehealth, have provided timely monitoring at home. Older adults are able to manage their chronic diseases at home. Smart home technology is evolv-
ing quickly with network sensors, new software, artificial intelligence, and other systems providing data connection between devices and the internet. There are many digital options that can assist with health maintenance, such as monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation rate, and memory aids. Smartwatches, wearable alert systems, and personal health track-
Introducing Our
NEWEST DOCTOR Internal Medicine Associates of Cranberry–UPMC welcomes Rutaba Tajammal, MD, to our office in Cranberry Township. Rutaba Tajammal, MD Internal Medicine Dr. Tajammal received her medical degree from the King Edward Medical University in Lahore, Pakistan. She completed her residency at the University of Buffalo in New York. Dr. Tajammal is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a member of the American Medical Association and American College of Physicians.
New patients are welcome. To schedule an appointment, scan the QR code, or call 724-779-7400.
Internal Medicine Associates of Cranberry-UPMC 20130 Route 19, Suite 1000 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 724-779-7400 18
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