telecare

Telecare refers to the use of information and communication technologies to provide care and support to people in their homes or local communities, enabling monitoring, communication, and prompt assistance. It emphasizes safety, independence, and welfare, and complements existing health and social care services.

Technologies used in telecare include personal alarms, motion and environmental sensors, door and appliance sensors, medication reminders, videocalls, and integrated monitoring platforms. These devices transmit data to a monitoring center or to designated carers, professionals, or family members who respond to alerts.

Telecare supports a range of users, including older adults, people with chronic conditions, or individuals with disabilities who wish to live independently. It can provide 24/7 reassurance through automated alerts, routine check-ins, and rapid response in emergencies such as falls, wandering, or acute health events.

The benefits include enhanced safety and independence for users, reduced social isolation, and potentially fewer hospital visits or urgent care needs when problems are detected early. Challenges include upfront costs, ongoing maintenance, false alarms, user acceptance, data privacy and security, and the risk of widening inequalities if access to technology is uneven.

Adoption and funding arrangements vary by country and jurisdiction; telecare services are typically delivered by local authorities, health services, or private providers and may be subject to safety and data protection regulations.

See also telemedicine, telehealth, and assistive technology.