About us
Enabling independence through design and technology
Information on technology
Housing 21 is at the forefront of putting into practice technological solutions which support the dignity and independence of older people.
In Lewisham, south London we are working with BIME (Bath Institute of Medical Engineering) to evaluate the use of smart technology in a flat to support a resident with dementia. After an initial period of assessment the appropriate smart devices have now been activated and are having a positive impact on his well being, independence and quality of life.
In Bristol, Housing 21 is working with the city council and BIME to install wireless smart technology in an intermediate care flat at Hillside Court. People going into the flat from hospital will be assessed for smart devices that can then be installed in their homes. The intention being to either avoid and/or reduce the risk of hospital re-admission or placement in a residential home.
Tunstall telecare
Housing 21 is responding proactively to the Government's current drive to increase the use of assistive technology (AT) for older people enabling them to live longer, more independently and with greater dignity, in their own homes. One of our responses is to install Tunstall Telecare Overlay in all our new extra care housing. This creates a wireless 'radio gateway' allowing an array of sensors to be fitted into individual flats that can alert care staff of any difficulties requiring a response. These will help to manage risks such as falls, floods and in the case of dementia, 'wandering' or walking. These risks can cause increased anxiety for the resident, their family and the court staff and can result in the resident moving into residential care. The use of AT, as part of the resident's care package, hopefully will reduce these risks and enable the resident to remain in their home without the need to move into another care setting.
