Assistive technology and telecare: Forging solutions for independent living

Description

Assistive technology and telecare are of increasing importance in government policy on healthcare provision. This is reflected in the NHS Plan 2000, which suggested that 50 per cent more people should be in receipt of assistive technology by 2004. This report provides a comprehensive review and analysis of current policy and practice, as well as making recommendations for the future. Based on user views and technological developments, the report: looks at the need for assistive technology and telecare; highlights background and previous trial developments as well as the emerging policy environment; defines new generations of telecare equipment and provision; provides a detailed cost analysis which sets out the implications and costs associated with the widespread introduction of telecare; and makes recommendations for future development and deployment. The report is aimed specifically at people involved or interested in supporting older and disabled people in the community. It is therefore of particular interest to community alarm providers, occupational therapists, healthcare planners and policy makers, clinical engineers, and academics and researchers in the field.

Dr Simon Brownsell is a researcher at Barnsley District General Hospital and involved in several aspects of assistive technology and telecare research and development. Professor David Bradley is responsible for a number of projects in this field. He has a particular interest in systems definition, the use of intelligent systems, and the integration of machine based intelligence into the telecare programme. Jeremy Porteus formerly managed the Corporate Policy Team in the Chief Executive's Unit at Anchor Trust and is a member of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister's Housing for Older People Working Group.

"As a source of information for health care planners and policy makers, this book will be invaluable." Professor Richard Wootton, Editor, International Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare "Whether you are new to the field of telehealth or an expert, this book will have something for you." John Hennock, Executive Director, Association of Social Alarm Providers "... sheds considerable light on future developments and how services and technologies could be delivered in the future." Nicholas Robinson, National Clinical Adviser for Telemedicine and eHealth