More elderly people and those with health needs in Suffolk, UK, may be able to delay accessing additional care or moving to supported accommodation, thanks to an increased uptake of digital care technology.
Suffolk County Council, in partnership with Alcove and Rethink Partners, has achieved a landmark number of referrals for its care service.
It has received 1,000 in under nine months since the Cassius service went live on July 19 last year.
More than 1,600 devices have been installed to enable Suffolk residents to stay at home, better manage risk and live independently. It has also helped prevent the need for urgent care in many cases.
The devices include movement sensors, smart watches, wearables, falls prevention devices and other technology.
Hellen Bowey, CEO at Alcove, said: “Digital transformation continues to shape and influence every part of our lives, and digital care is no exception.
“This milestone is an indication of the progressive approach to providing outstanding digital care to Suffolk’s most vulnerable residents and we’re proud to work in partnership with Suffolk County Council.”
Suffolk County Council believes it has saved up to £2.2 million by enabling people to live well at home for longer, rather than having to access formal care and support before they were ready.
Cllr Rebecca Hopfensperger, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This is a significant milestone in our work to support Suffolk’s most vulnerable residents to access the care and services they need.
“We’re really proud of the work carried out by Cassius and Suffolk County Council to improve and enhance our existing social care provision and look forward to seeing the continued benefits for the population of Suffolk.
“It’s promising to see a steady rise in referrals for digital care to help improve the lives of our residents.”
Alcove specialises in delivering connected care technology systems for local authorities, the NHS, housing associations and sheltered accommodation providers across the UK.