New residential care home for elderly now benchmark in gerontechnology
LONDON: A new residential care home for the elderly has set a new benchmark in gerontechnology.
On February 7, 2024, a newly operational residential care home for the elderly (RCHE) in the Kwu Tung North Multi-welfare Services Complex received a significant visit. The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, along with the Permanent Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Ms Alice Lau, came to inspect the facilities and partake in early Chinese New Year festivities with the residents.
Embracing Modern Construction Methods
The eight-storey complex, which was constructed using the Modular Integrated Construction method, began its journey at the end of 2019. By August 2023, the complex was fully operational. It currently offers 1,750 residential care places for the elderly across its first seven floors. The facilities include nursing home places and care-and-attention places.
A Multi-functional Complex for the Elderly
Adding to its appeal, the complex also houses Day Care Units for the Elderly on the first and second floors. The ground floor caters to the needs of severely mentally handicapped persons as well as severely disabled persons. During their visit, Mr Sun and officials were briefed on the daily operations and the multidisciplinary nursing and care services of the RCHE.
Gerontechnology: A Revolution in Elderly Care
A key aspect of their visit was the examination of the adoption of gerontechnology within the complex. This includes contactless vital sign monitoring systems, bed exit and fall detection alarms, and intelligence robots for patrols and supporting virtual visits. These technologies are not just for show; they are aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the elderly and improving service efficiency within the residential care homes. The integration of technology, particularly extended realities (XR), provides engaging and interactive platforms for health promotion and rehabilitation, enhancing the quality of life for elderly individuals.
In the spirit of the approaching Chinese New Year, Mr Sun and officials engaged with the residents, distributing fortune bags and extending good health wishes. They left, assured of the potential of the RCHE, poised to provide excellent care for the elderly, setting a benchmark for other residential care homes.
