Comparisons Between the UK and US Home Telecare Delivery Modes to the Elderly

摘要

Modes used in the United Kingdom and the United States of providing health-related services to elderly populations living at home are described. In both the U.S. and England, an increased movement of thought is leaning toward managing these populations through use of telecommunications-ready devices and interventions (called telehealthcare in the U.S., telecare in the UK). Differences in the medical model of care practiced in the US and the social model of care practiced in the UK are indicated. As elderly populations continue to grow and require a large range of services, we certainly need to learn more about ways to provide services and comfort through telecommunications to the elderly living at home. Given the circumstances of increased professional care provider shortages throughout the western world, frequent in-person care is a less likely option for elderly persons living at home but this does not mean less care will be provided overall. With telecommunications technology in place, whether it be planned telecare or telehealthcare or preferably both, the elderly populations throughout the western world ought to be able to access services and age comfortably in place in their own homes, wherever those elders' homes are located.