Installing location-based data solutions (LBDS) in your memory care facility could be one of the best decisions you make for your residents and staff members. LBDS are a great asset to facilities that serve residents prone to wandering and confusion, as they allow staff to monitor the movement and location of their residents without invading their independence. Before investing in a location-based data solution for your memory care facility, consider these factors.
What Are Location-Based Data Solutions?
Location-based data solutions (LBDS) use GPS locating software that notes and reports the exact location of the radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip counterpart technology. These RFID chips use active radio frequency identification and Bluetooth systems to locate and report the instant location of the chip. Chips can be assigned to each resident, staff member, or asset. These chips can be attached directly to individuals as badges or ID cards with embedded chips, removing the need for additional hardware like scanners and readers throughout the facility to grant access to specific spaces. The chips allow for significant freedom when it comes to resident monitoring, as you do not have to set up check-in desks or hubs for staff members to monitor residents as they move throughout the facility. Instead, you can program your LBDS to alert higher-ups in the event a resident wanders somewhere they should not have. Your LBDS will allow you to determine how they got there and when – all in real-time.
Purpose of LBDS
To get the most out of your location-based data solution, you need to have a clear direction for the purpose of your system. Many memory care facilities use the technology to monitor and protect their residents, while some also use it to record staff duties and keep track of assets. Location-based data solutions such as Secure Care’s can be individualized and fitted to your facility’s specifications with ease, ensuring you have the right setup for your needs. Not knowing your facility’s needs could result in incorrect or unsuccessful use of your LBDS.
Consider Resident Needs
Another key factor to consider when it comes to LBDS is the needs and comfort levels of your residents. Location-based data solutions are a noninvasive way of monitoring residents, but some may not understand how it works. It is important to have your staff fully trained in and knowledgeable about your LBDS for this very reason, as it allows your team to educate residents on the value and safety of integrating this technology.
If you have residents that are more prone to wandering the facility, it may be worthwhile to consider investing in a door monitor solution that is compatible with your location-based data solution. When used together, these can be highly effective at preventing wandering residents, which can result in significant injuries to themselves or staff. The RFID chips within residents’ badges can communicate with the door monitoring system to unlock and lock doors, permitting access only to those authorized to enter. This promotes independence amongst residents, as they are able to freely move throughout the facility without being monitored directly by a staff member.
LBDS Offer Many Benefits
There are many benefits to integrating a location-based data solution into your memory care facility. From boosting resident and staff safety tenfold to improving visibility when it comes to asset and equipment tracking, the various applications of an LBDS are seemingly endless. Whether you are looking for the minimum setup or one with every feature, Secure Care can customize your location-based data solution to meet your facility’s specific and unique needs. Have needs that evolve? We can update and upgrade your existing LBDS to meet your newest standards!
About Secure Care Products, LLC
For over 40 years, Secure Care Products, LLC has been committed to providing improved safety, security, and locating solutions through best-in-class service and innovative design for your most valuable assets. As the first company in the world to design and manufacture electronic monitoring equipment for wander-prone residents, we empower long-term care and healthcare facilities around the world. Using state-of-the-art, cutting-edge technologies, we keep people and things protected. Let us know how we can help you by calling 1.800.451.7917 or contact us.
