Analytics aimed at helping seniors stay in their homes

The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society is using big data and analytics technology to help improve health and wellness services for seniors, so they can live safely and more independently in their homes.

The Good Samaritan Society has teamed with IBM to better handle services for clients enrolled in its LivingWell@Home program. The program uses sensor technology to promote wellness and safety for clients in their homes, helping to identify developing medical conditions before they become problems. For example, the sensor devices can detect how active someone is, their sleep patterns or if they’ve had a fall.

According to IBM, the program consolidates the sensor information along with clinical and operational data on patients using its Big Data and Analytics software. The information is collected 24/7 and delivered securely online via an integrated dashboard to a licensed nurse who reviews it daily. The solution enables Good Samaritan Society caregivers to proactively monitor, manage and collaborate to ensure successful home-based eldercare, IBM reports.

Rustan Williams, VP and CIO at The Good Samaritan Society, says, “We’re working to enable our clients to take control of their health and make the choice to safely stay in their homes, preventing or delaying the need for a higher level of care. For many, this is a more affordable option and provides a much better quality of life.”

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