Abstract

The aim of the project was to evaluate the use of Telehealth equipment in the homes of older community-dwelling people, and to review its social and economic impact. A mixed methods approach was adopted, involving interviews, observation and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales. The overall impression gained from participants was an enhancement to the self-perceived quality of daily functioning. Less benefit was observed by those who had been self-monitoring previously. The greatest benefit was apparent in those participants where changes in behaviours to prevent an exacerbation of their condition was possible, through either better compliance with medication, or better understanding the impact of medication on their vital signs and what that meant to their daily activities. The economic benefits appear to be linked to that social improvement. A greater focus on specific conditions and the ability to achieve stability in self-management could strengthen the evidence for targeted economic benefits.

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