Implementing Technology: How One Provider Moved Past the Residential Supports Waiting List
In South Carolina, more than 9,000 individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities are on a waiting list for residential supports, with no funding available. As a proactive response to this dilemma, one S.C. provider has decided to move toward implementing technology throughout their programs.
The Charles Lea Center (CLC) began creating programs with technology in 2010 as an effort to offer people with disabilities an opportunity to develop skills, promote independence and empower people to live in their own homes. Since then, SimplyHome has continued to work with CLC to help them employ and benefit from the efficacy of such technology. In order to provide new independent living options, customized supports were designed for the residents based on each individual’s daily routine and priorities.
The programs at CLC now offer individual support teams, person-centered planning, technology, remote monitoring (safety, health and security), and specific skills training for individuals and staff.
• Today, 100% of CLC’s programs offer technology & 93% of the clients supported utilize the technology.
• 6 new programs have been created over the course of 6 years.
• Using technology, CLC is able to provide support for their clients costing approximately $100 per day, per individual. Without technology, this cost would be approximately $200 per day.
• As of March 2016, savings generated through the use of technology has enabled 20 new individuals to be supported by CLC - without any additional state dollars.
• In a recent survey, when CLC residents were asked if they felt safe in their homes, 100% said yes.
Which SimplyHome Technology Has Been Implemented?
SimplyHome System
Panic Sensors: Pendants worn by residents, allowing them to push a button requesting help from staff 24/7.
Motion Sensors: Creates an alert at night if someone leaves their bed and does not return within a specific amount of time.
Door/Window Sensors: Placed on all exterior doors and bedroom windows to notify staff of entry/exit during day and night hours.
Water Sensors: Alerts 24/7 and typically used in the bathroom to alert in case of water overflowing.
Cameras: One camera is located in a common area to help responding staff triage an issue or alert before they are on-site.
Medication Dispensers: Can dispense medication up to four times per day at customizable times.
SimplyHome Environmental Controls
Integrated Tablets & Mounts: Assists in managing the temperature of the residence, doors, TV, and lights.
Through various available interfaces, individuals control their environment by using the touch screen, voice activation or a switch.
Phone Paging System & Response Center
Phone Paging System: To create the fastest response and best overall experience, CLC uses our two-way voice paging system in each room of the home via the resident’s telephone. Remote staff can instantly talk with a resident with the push of a button, without the individual having to answer the phone. Should the individual get out of bed and not return, or call for help, the responding staff can have open communication in a matter of seconds.
Response Center: Staff members are utilized as a team of responders for alerts generated by sensor activity. The staff have two response cell phones and a computer on-site dedicated to monitoring and following-up on the alerts.