New Technology Enables Adult Children to Care for Their Aging Parents
Vancouver, British Columbia (PRWEB) July 31, 2013 -- Claris Healthcare has recently announced the launch of Claris Companion, a digital tablet that functions as an in-home communications device designed specifically for the 60 per cent of older seniors who may have little to no experience with computer technology. The new system helps busy family members connect with their loved ones and keep track of their wellbeing in a non-invasive way, even from across the country. A cellular 4G version of the device has been just been announced, making it even easier to say connected for one low monthly fee.
"We're living in an age when most people use some form of digital technology to communicate and keep on top of their own medical care, whether it's email, text, or online services," said Geof Auchinleck, co-founder and CEO of Claris Healthcare. "Unfortunately many seniors are left out of conversations because they're not comfortable with, or unable to use technology. This can lead to social isolation and medical issues."
Auchinleck created the Companion keeping in mind his 93-year-old mother who has never used a computer. He designed it so family members or home care providers can control how the tablet works through a secure, easy-to-use website. Even prior to shipping, the device can be completely personalized by selecting from a few simple options online, and with the new cellular 4G version, the Companion will work right out of the box without any configuration by the senior. The Companion automatically presents new family photos, email and texts, as well as medication reminders, wellness surveys and exercise videos on a 10-inch screen. Family members can also receive missed medication alerts, as well as “check-in”, and "call me" notifications to ensure their loved one is okay.
Unlike other computers, tablets or devices, Claris Companion was designed specifically for older generations who may not be comfortable with or unable to use traditional technology due to health issues such as arthritis (55 per cent of Americans 75 or older), poor vision (15 per cent Americans 75 or older) and hearing impairment (47 per cent Americans 75 or older), Parkinson’s, or early stage Alzheimer’s.
The Companion displays messages and notifications automatically; large buttons and text and amplified sound make interaction easy; and a simplified charging dock eliminates fussy charging connectors. Further, the Companion only allows invited contacts to send email or photos and does not deliver advertising or any other unsolicited content, making it safe and secure for all users.
"For older seniors, failing to adhere to medication and treatment protocols is one of the leading causes of avoidable visits to the emergency room," said Paul Sharman, co-founder and COO of Claris Healthcare. "We believe the Companion has the ability to not only engage seniors socially but provide them with a healthcare platform that helps improve medication compliance and promotes self-managed care, prolonging their independence and allowing them to age in place."
For more information visit: http://www.clariscompanion.com.
About Claris Healthcare: Claris Healthcare was founded with the goal of enabling seniors to increase connectivity with loved ones while limiting unnecessary hospital admissions. In order to achieve this goal, Claris Healthcare designs technology that shifts the typical care pathway for seniors living on their own from an ambulance ride destined for an emergency room to a preventative and interactive healthcare approach centered on overall patient wellbeing. After extensive consultation with health care workers, home care providers, retirement home operators, hospital physicians, community physicians, seniors and family members to discover what could be done to ensure seniors are able to live independently, we developed Claris Companion™, an innovative communications system that helps promote self-managed care for seniors in their homes and enable a more appropriate escalation of care including visual consultations via video conferencing to ensure they are not unnecessarily admitted to hospital.
To view a video on how the device works, click here.
Media Contact:
Jenna Kuchinsky
604.558.1656
media(at)clarishealthcare(dot)com
Jenna Kuchinsky, Yulu Public Relations Inc., +1 604.558.1656, [email protected]
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