Modern technology has improved tremendously over the years. So much so, that monitoring an individual’s daily activities has become one of the most integral facets of patient management, especially for the aging population and people with disabilities. One of the major components of ADL is eating, bathing, dressing, and walking. These are basic activities that should be executed in order to track the overall health of a person, and their independence.
There is a worldwide demand for more exciting tracking features that enable better quality of treatment. Let's examine further the creative innovations that are redefining the tracking of ADLs.
1. ADL Tracking with Wearable Technology
Wearable technology is changing the face of healthcare, and ADL tracking is no exception. Smartwatches that were initially meant to track physical activities are now being used to monitor specific ADLs. These wearables are capable of recording heart rate, movement, sleep, and even falls. With the recent advancement in technology, the data gathered is now more accurate than ever, enabling further analysis and tracking in real time.
In relation to example advancements in sensor technology enables wearables to detect minute actions in the core parts of the activities of daily living such as getting dressed or mobility such as walking. This reverses the existing challenge of providing healthcare professionals with an accurate picture of the patient’s abilities and needs, making it possible to attend to them in a more proactive and personalized approach.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
AI and machine learning are changing how ADL data is processed and understood. Algorithms can process vast datasets collected from wearables and other sensors, with the help of AI identifying patterns, predicting certain health issues before they manifest, assisting caregivers, or doctors, to know when someone would need help doing a particular activity.
AI-powered solutions may also monitor behavioral changes like reduced mobility, making it harder to accomplish basic tasks such as eating or bathing and send alerts for timely interventions. These predictive insights can help practitioners avoid health complications and improve the existing quality of care.
3. The Use of Smart Home Devices With ADL
Smart homes are now being incorporated as a means of tracking activities of daily living (ADLs) and are especially useful for people living alone. The use of smart lights, motion detectors, and voice-activated devices can aid in the performance and tracking of ADLs. For example, a smart refrigerator can send a message to a caretaker if a person has not eaten for some time or a motion detector can ring an alarm if a person has been seated for an extended period.
With the development of smart home systems, caregivers can now receive notification in regards to certain patients, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken when required. This not only enhances the safety of the individual, but also significantly improves an individual’s overall quality of life if they are seeking to remain independent.
4. The Use Of Telehealth And Remote Patient Monitoring
Over the last few decades, remote patient monitoring processes have seen a significant increase in demand particularly due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. These advancements in technology allow the constant observation of ADLs right from the comfort of one’s home with the supervision of a healthcare professional. Telehealth solutions empower caregivers to access data regarding ADL, conduct virtual health checks, and modify the care approach as needed.
The possibility of monitoring passively enables remote systems to alert caregivers in cases of concern with ADL performance and helps tackle the issue with great effectiveness without the need for face-to-face interactions.
5. Individualized Care Plans
The progression of the tracking of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) relies on the prospect of being able to provide tailored care plans that are centered on real time information. The flexibility of wearable devices, artificial intelligence, and smart homes makes it possible for healthcare professionals to capture nuanced data about people and design care plans that reflect their goals and capabilities. Not only do these plans enhance the practice of patient care, but they also enable people to enjoy greater independence for longer periods.
Conclusion
There is much more hope in the future of Activity of Daily Living tracking because the advancement in technology is providing faster, more accurate, more personalized, and more efficient applications. It is likely that as wearable devices, artificial intelligence, smart homes, telehealth, and other technologies transform, the area of ADL tracking will significantly enhance the health outcomes and promote the independence of patients. At Serenity of Commerce, we look forward to these revolutions and how they will change the frontiers of healthcare in the upcoming years.
