News and media releases from the Surrey Heartlands area
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Falls prevention and detection technology cuts hospital admissions in half
Fewer elderly and vulnerable people living in Surrey have ended up in hospital thanks to innovative falls prevention and detection technology.
The technology uses sound and motion sensors and artificial intelligence to monitor care home residents when alone in their rooms at night by alerting staff when they require assistance.
The pilot was carried out by Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care System’s Digitising Adult Social Care Team in a bid to better prevent and detect falls of those in residential and nursing homes across the county.
Four care providers in Epsom, Woking, Guildford and Reigate were selected as part of the pilot, as they were identified as those who would benefit most from the technology. The installations began in October 2023 and were successfully completed by February 2024.
Results from the pilot have not only resulted in a 50 per cent reduction in hospital admissions but has seen a 57 per cent reduction in total falls.
The technology, provided by Ally Cares, has resulted in residents also experiencing fewer night-time disruptions from routine checks and has led to improved well-being and greater alertness during the day. The pilot achieved a 30 per cent reduction in night-time disturbances and saved over five carer hours per night.
Stephanie Marks, Digital Implementation Manager, from Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care System, said:
Care homes can be very busy places and there is a limited number of night staff available.
This technology, whilst not designed to replace human checks, helps carers provide support when it is needed and allows residents to enjoy a more restful night’s sleep with the reassurance that those supporting them will be alerted should they require assistance.
We’re really pleased to see such positive results from our pilot and the meaningful impact this technology has had on the resident’s health and wellbeing.
By investing in innovative digital solutions, Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care Board, the body responsible for planning and commissioning health and care services, is enhancing the safety, well-being and quality of care for its residents.
Funding has been secured for a further 11 care homes across Surrey to be installed with Ally Cares technology, supporting a further 330 residents. Seven of which have already welcomed the technology with the remaining due in the coming months.
Thomas Tredinnick, CEO and Co-founder of Ally Cares commented:
We’ve greatly valued working with Surrey Heartlands on this project, which has reinforced the immense impact of AI resident monitoring in helping residents live healthier and happier lives in residential care homes.