Opinion Article: Are SME Tech Companies Revolutionising the Care Industry?

By Devin Chawda, Co-founder and CEO of Y-cam Solutions Ltd.
Home carers and independent care homes are often criticised for providing inadequate standards of care to the elderly and vulnerable. This is a clear cause of concern for those who are planning to use care services for a relative or friend.

The cost of having an elderly or vulnerable person in a dedicated care home is said to be an average of £700 a week* and anyone with assets of more than £23,250, including the value of their home, has to pay for their own care. Therefore, not only is there is a common desire for people to remain in their home, but for some families it is their only option.

An increasing number of families are using technology to ease the pressure of caring for a loved one and in response to this need, more and more companies are creating products that will allow people to stay in their home for as long as possible.

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The progression of internet based products, and mobile connectivity through smartphones and tablets, has led to a surge in companies creating connected devices for the home. These products will make a huge impact to both the care market and those who look after vulnerable family and friends as now, they can continue caring for that person even when they cannot be around physically. This may be the ability to see and hear within the home when they are out, control the homes amenities or monitor their wellbeing, all through the power of the internet.

There are a number of useful gadgets available on the high street to aid those families who care for a loved one at home. Using these ensures that the levels of safety and care aren’t compromised while also minimising stress and worry.

Some key products currently on the market are:

  • Y-cam HomeMonitor - Keep an eye on your relative from anywhere in the world on your smartphone or tablet
  • Nest Thermostat - Control the temperature of relatives from your mobile to ensure they are not too hot or cold
  • Scout Alarm - Coming to the UK in August, this alarm system is highly customisable and allows you to be alerted to anything suspicious without monthly contracts and costs
  • Alert Me - Monitor and control the energy consumption in the home remotely
  • FitBit - Track their fitness, calorie intake and even sleep patterns from your phone
  • W/me Wristband - Still in the manufacturing process, this wristband sensors the body's nervous system and offers insight into the users mental and physical wellbeing
  • Belkin WeMo - Control electrical devices from outside the home to make sure items are switched off
  • Philips Go Safe - A personal emergency response system with fall detection capabilities and locating technologies
A number of companies manufacturing these innovative products are startup's and SME's, highlighting the emerging market to match the need for home care products and solutions.

According to Care Home Minister Norman Lamb there are 300,000 people currently relying on home care services in the UK, yet a third of all care and nursing homes in England aren't meeting the necessary standards."

There is a wealth of technology available now that can substantially improve the lives of carers as well as the older and vulnerable that need that extra bit of help. Our homes and possessions are getting 'smarter' every day, and the growth in affordable technology products and their "connecting" abilities are phenomenal. People need to utilise this tech to their advantage - it's available now and will have a hugely positive impact on their lives.

Over the last few years we have seen a substantial increase in the number of people who want to minimise the stress brought on by wondering if their loved ones are okay in their own home - and technology can help them do this.

The use of technology and the innovations available aimed specifically at this expanding market shows how technology is revolutionising the industry. As we continue to live in an ageing society the use of these products is set to grow rapidly.

* The Daily Telegraph Dec 2012

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