Due to the accelerating pace of population aging, the incidence of dementia is expected to rise rapidly. Telemedicine will help people with dementia Healthcare
Digital technology and telemedicine can greatly improve care for people with dementia and make life easier for their loved ones. This is stated in a new study from the Regional Office for Europe of the World Health Organization. When implemented in an age-friendly environment and accompanied by local support, these solutions can reduce anxiety, depression and loneliness.
“Technology is not just a healthcare tool. This is a way to bring people together and restore hope,” said Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of Health Affairs at WHO Europe.
Digital solutions are especially relevant in rural areas where access to specialists is limited. Such solutions include medication reminders, artificial intelligence systems to prevent falls and improve quality of care.
The study was based on nearly 100 scientific reviews and 3,000 publications, but the authors emphasize that more data is needed to effectively implement new solutions.
Aging Europe
The number of people over 80 in Europe is projected to double by 2050. This requires adaptation of health care systems, especially when it comes to caring for older adults with dementia, a condition that is most often associated with Alzheimer’s disease and particularly affects women.
Digital technologies help older adults maintain independence, security, and social connections. They reduce stress for patients and their loved ones, reduce indoor falls by 63 percent, and help manage behavioral symptoms.
There are challenges, however: Older users and their caregivers sometimes experience fatigue and irritation when using digital platforms. Therefore, it is important to make technology accessible and convenient, the WHO notes.