Cutting Edge Technology Debuts at LaGrange Pointe

It may look like your typical lounge chair, but seniors at LaGrange Pointe independent retirement community in downtown La Grange, are reaping the benefits of the Health-E-System and its remote monitoring capability.

The presence of the Health-E-System at LaGrange Pointe is part of a clinical trial conducted by Cardiomedix and Commwell, the Evanston, IL companies who have developed the system for preventive health care.  LaGrange Pointe was chosen as the clinical trial site since it is one of the very few free standing independent retirement communities for seniors 62+ in the area.  The Health-E-System monitors can be placed on any type of chair.

The Health-E-System allows residents to sit and have their vital signs taken with the information automatically sent to a 24/7 nurse call center.  The resident sees and communicates with the nurse via the internet with a microphone and TV screen.  The nurse captures the electronically sent information, provides results to the resident and then if deemed necessary, can forward the results to their doctor.  The system can monitor the resident’s blood pressure, check the heart, weight, nutrition habits and balance ability.  Sessions on the system are private and completely HIPAA compliant.  The benefits include catching early signs of stroke or heart problems as well as keeping residents from repeated visits to the doctor.

Studies have shown that increased access to healthcare monitoring through technology means that symptoms, complications etc. can quickly be diagnosed. Early detection of the need for healthcare translates into not only the better overall health of the patient, but also reduced traumatic emergency room visits and hospitalizations.  One of the most important reasons for adopting medical technology is that it has been shown to reduce the cost of healthcare and increase efficiency through better management of chronic diseases, shared health professional staffing, reduced travel time, as well as fewer hospital stays.

Technology such as the Health-E-System in a location like LaGrange Pointe means the elderly can be monitored and remain independent for longer periods of time.  The costs associated with assisted living can be extraordinary.  Research shows older adults often experience a higher level of mental satisfaction when they can remain independent.  Family members are also not required to provide continuous medical assistance.

Overall, by streamlining the process by which a senior receives healthcare through convenient easy-to-use technology helps them to spend less time at medical facilities.  They are less anxious and more satisfied with the expedience of remote monitoring and often actually feel empowered to participate in their own care program.

Bringing the Health-E-System to LaGrange Pointe is another in a series of ways that management is using technology to enhance the lives of its residents.  Most recently, the addition of Skype, a free internet video call system, was also installed for the residents to use for face-to-face contact with family and friends.