Technology Enabled Care (TEC) service

Like in society, we also often use technology in social care. Technology-Enabled Care (TEC) describes a set of services supported by various devices. 

TEC can support people to live more independently by providing tools and solutions that help you

• manage daily tasks
• monitor your health
• access essential services  

Here are some examples of the devices we use  

• fall detection - devices that automatically alert caregivers or emergency services if you fall or have an accident
• medication management - apps and devices that send medication reminders and even dispense doses, ensuring you take your medications as prescribed
• wearable devices - smartwatches and fitness trackers that monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns
  • this is to encourage a healthier lifestyle and help detect irregularities early
• smart home technology - devices like smart thermostats, lights, and voice-activated assistants can make it easier to control your environment if you have mobility issues
• remote health appointments - consult healthcare professionals from the comfort of your home
  • this is particularly beneficial if you have mobility issues or live in a remote area
• remote monitoring - track vital signs and health information, sending data to health and social care providers in real-time
  • these allow early intervention for people with chronic conditions  
• social connection - video calls and social media help combat social isolation, allowing you to maintain social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness
• home safety and security - smart home security systems can provide peace of mind and offer safety features like video surveillance and alarm systems
• access to information and services - the Internet and mobile apps provide access to information, shopping, banking, and a wide range of services without leaving home
• assistive technology - specialised TEC devices like screen readers, voice-activated software, and adaptive keyboards can help people with disabilities to use computers and smartphones
• transportation services - apps and services for booking accessible transportation can help people with mobility challenges get around
• emergency response systems - personal emergency response systems (PERS) will call for help in emergencies 
• cognitive support - TEC can help people with cognitive impairments through reminders, scheduling, and memory aids

TEC helps people by offering more control over their health, environment, and daily activities. They help promote independence and enhance your quality of life. 

TEC can be particularly valuable for older adults, people with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions. 

Telecare - short for ‘telecommunications in care’ - is a form of assistive service. It uses telecommunication (phones) and information technology (devices) to support people. It provides support to those with health or social care needs, to help them live safely and independently in their own homes. 

Telecare systems typically include sensors, alarms, and communication devices.  

Some key parts of telecare include 

• sensors -  these are put in your home to monitor aspects of daily life. 
  • examples include 
    • bed sensors to detect if you’ve got out of bed
    • fall detectors
    • smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
    • motion sensors
• alarm systems - when a sensor detects an unusual event or emergency, it triggers an alert or alarm that can be sent to a monitoring centre, family member or carer
• communication devices - including personal alarms or wearable panic buttons that allow you to call for help in emergencies
  • these may also have two-way communication to talk to a call centre or carer
• monitoring centre - many telecare systems are linked to a monitoring centre staffed by professionals who can respond to alarms and emergencies
  • they can assess the situation and contact appropriate responders 
• data and information sharing - telecare systems can provide valuable data and information about your daily routines and health
  • this information can be shared with social care providers, allowing for proactive care and early intervention

We have our own monitoring service in North Somerset. You can find out more about this by contacting us at Care Connect. 

Before you can be supplied with TEC, we will need to make a care assessment. This is to determine what your individual care and support needs are. 

If we find you are eligible for support, we will supply TEC and the associated devices on loan, free of charge. A weekly charge is made for the alarm linked to the 24-hour monitoring centre. 

If you are not eligible for financial support from us, you can buy your own equipment. There are lots of devices available, and many can be purchased through high street shops and major online retail sites. 

It is always worth thinking about the specific thing you need to device to do. Then do a little bit of research to make sure it does what you need. 

We will always offer you some advice if you need it, but please remember we do not recommend specific devices or suppliers.  

A good place to start is the MedEquip website (formerly AskSARA). It is a free online tool that helps you find the equipment you need.  

Technology can be confusing at times. We are always happy to try and answer your questions.  

Contact us through Care Connect who will be able to help.