Dr Varun Gupta, Executive Vice President & Chief Business and Growth Officer, Antara Assisted Care Services highlights that given the fact that India has a vast and diverse geography with many senior citizens living in remote or underserved areas, healthcare facilities are often limited, but telehealth bridges this gap by allowing seniors to consult with healthcare professionals without the need for long and difficult journeys
Technology permeates nearly every aspect of our lives today. So, it comes as no surprise that technology is also making significant waves in healthcare, and one of the most promising advancements is the integration of telehealth and physical therapy, ushering in a new era of patient care and rehabilitation.
This perfect alliance between healthcare and technology is not just modernising the industry, but also breaking down barriers to access and revolutionising the way we approach our well-being.
Breaking barriers
One of the biggest advantages of telehealth for elderly patients is that it can break down barriers to access. This is especially important for senior citizens who live in rural areas or have difficulty reaching a therapist physically.
Given the fact that India has a vast and diverse geography with many senior citizens living in remote or underserved areas, healthcare facilities are often limited, but telehealth bridges this gap by allowing seniors to consult with healthcare professionals without the need for long and difficult journeys.
The traditional image of a senior citizen in physical therapy might involve a strenuous journey to a clinic, navigating through traffic and waiting rooms. But with the integration of telehealth and physical therapy, that picture is rapidly changing.
With telehealth, our elderly citizens can get the medical aid they need by exploring services such as video conferencing, phone calls, and secure messaging.
Telehealth is also becoming increasingly effective. There is a growing body of research that shows that telehealth can be as effective as traditional in-person care for a variety of conditions, including physical therapy.
Matter of the mind
Mental health has been a matter of concern and importance for several years, but the COVID-19 pandemic showed the world just how grim the situation is.
Many elderly citizens in India face mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety. Telehealth provides a confidential and accessible platform for mental health counselling and support right at the doorstep, reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.
Revolutionising patient care
Technology is revolutionising patient care and rehabilitation in a number of ways by making healthcare more accessible, convenient, and cost-effective.
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Regular monitoring:
For elderly citizens with chronic conditions or those who require regular check-ups, telehealth opens doors for remote monitoring of vital signs and health parameters. This allows healthcare providers to track their health status and intervene promptly when needed.
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Timely specialist consultations:
In India, access to specialised healthcare can be limited, especially in remote places. Telehealth can help connect elderly patients with specialists located in urban centres.
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Medication management:
With the help of telehealth, we can reduce the risk of medication errors and help patients adhere to their treatment plans. Telehealth platforms can aid in medication management by sending reminders to seniors to take their prescribed medications.
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Emergency assistance:
In cases of medical emergencies, telehealth can be used to quickly connect with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and instructions until in-person help arrives.
Care… right at home
As technology continues to develop, it is likely that we will see more innovative ways to use technology in healthcare with several healthcare providers offering care at home.
At Antara, a leading provider of physical therapy services in the country, patients are able to receive physical therapy in the comfort of their own homes with the help of senior care platform’s care at home services where experienced physical therapists use the latest technology to provide patients with the best possible care.
The integration of telehealth and physical therapy is just one glimpse of how technology is poised to revolutionise healthcare. For our senior citizens, it is a beacon of hope that encourages them to explore new avenues to take care of their health and well-being.
It’s a reminder that age should not limit access to quality healthcare.
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