Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a digital healthcare practice that allows doctors to use devices or technology to monitor patients from afar. In most cases, RPM involves collecting health metrics of some kind. This information can then be used to shape treatment decisions and spot warning signs before health issues evolve. There are few settings, though, that demonstrate its value better than RPM in geriatric care.

RPM revolutionizing geriatric care

Traditionally, care for geriatric patients has been heavily dependent on in-person services. But RPM fits into many of those existing care systems and can enhance the treatment experience in more ways than one.

The Role of RPM in Geriatric Care

Since remote patient monitoring solves many of the challenges associated with regular care, geriatric patients are ideal candidates. Those who need more frequent medical attention or have a higher risk of facing health problems – as many geriatric patients do – can benefit significantly from remote patient monitoring devices. Technology that measures metrics like pulse, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, temperature, and more collects real-time data, which typically could only be obtained through in-person visits. Similarly, wearable health monitors such as smartwatches make it simple for patients, providers, caregivers, and families to access live health information easily.

From simple sleep trackers to cardiac and diabetes remote monitoring devices, elderly patients have many opportunities to utilize virtual healthcare solutions. And research shows that the rise of remote patient monitoring systems has notable benefits for older adults.

For instance, one study analyzing the impact of telemedicine, including RPM, on geriatric cardiac patients found that remotely monitoring vitals helped improve treatment quality. Geriatric patients also appreciated their remote monitoring devices and expressed a willingness to use them.Other promising research suggests that remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices and systems can assist with conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia in geriatric patients. RPM aims to provide patients with continuous monitoring benefits without limitations. This leads to better care, proactive problem responses, and the freedom for patients to lead healthy lives at home.

What Are the Benefits of RPM for Geriatric Care?

Clearly, there are plenty of great opportunities for a remote patient monitoring system to be integrated into geriatric care. But beyond making it easier to keep an eye on patients, what do remote patient monitoring devices and solutions bring to the table?

Better Health Outcomes

Treatment that’s informed by periodic health data is great. Treatment informed by regular and real-time data is even better. Remote patient monitoring allows providers to maximize their resources, delivering personalized attention to patients when they need it most. Its ability to link patients to providers also helps make chronic disease management more successful.

Accessible Care for Everyone

Not all patients can make it to in-person appointments, and this is especially true for geriatric patients. Those with disabilities, limited mobility, or living in rural areas can benefit immensely from telehealth in general. 

Instead of relying on sparse in-person visits or dealing with more frequent appointments, patients can instead check in with their doctor right from the comfort of home, no matter where they are. 

Strong Patient Engagement and Satisfaction

Saving time and money is something everyone enjoys, and RPM can help patients achieve both by reducing travel expenses and minimizing the need for in-person appointments. But RPM does more than that to enhance the patient experience. It also empowers patients to actively participate in their health journey actively, increasing engagement and satisfaction at the same time.

Challenges of RPM for Geriatric Care and Overcoming Them

The best way to ensure your RPM system is effective for geriatric patients is to anticipate obstacles ahead of time. Come prepared with solutions to these common challenges to help patients and providers alike navigate RPM confidently:

  • Tech Problems. Learning how to use RPM devices and knowing how to troubleshoot doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Older adults may be especially likely to need extra help with tech. Regular education sessions for patients and caregivers can help you iron out any issues. It’s also a good idea to choose RPM devices, like those from CoachCare, that are user-friendly and give you access to tech support.
  • Reluctance. Some staff members or providers might be unsure about using RPM, whether they’re concerned about its accuracy, explaining it to patients, or navigating it themselves. Strive to prioritize training and open conversations about RPM so that everyone is on the same page.

Set your patients and remote patient monitoring program up for success by choosing a vendor that doesn’t cut corners. Trust CoachCare for intuitive RPM devices, software, and solutions. We’re here to help you with everything from training to billing so that you can bring the benefits of RPM to your practice. Reach out today to learn more.