Powerful forces are changing the nature of health and social care. With better access to higher education, information sources like the internet, and greater personal wealth, people want more say in how their health and social needs are met. In addition, massive advances in information management, technology and science are taking place. These forces, facilitated by an increasingly pervasive electronic and radio-enabled environment, are rapidly converging to create exciting new ways to improve public services.
Harnessing these forces will help public services to meet the challenges posed by an ageing population and the needs of people with disabilities. The potential of technology to support independence is enormous. It offers one way to break the downward spiral that all too often leads to dependency, wasted lives and higher public expenditure.
The Audit Commission's previous work in this area has examined 'traditional' AT: orthotics, prosthetics, wheelchair services, 'standard' community equipment and audiology services. This report now concentrates mainly on some of the newer electronic assistive technologies of telecare and telehealth. The core messages are still very relevant to all those with an interest in promoting the independence of older or disabled people.
This report is aimed primarily at service commissioners, service managers and Government; though users, carers and their representatives will hopefully find it of value as they develop a more prominent role at the centre of health and social care.
Included in this report:
- why assistive technology services are important
- evidence of how assistive technology can support independence
- obstacles to progress
- delivering change to introduce assistive technology
- recommendations