Everyday Mainstay’s Technology Coordinator Heather Lewis is promoting the potential offered by this innovative approach to programs and services.
Tell us about the positive effect of technology.
- Technology has positively impacted the people supported by Mainstay by enhancing communication, increasing accessibility to services, and improving their overall quality of care. It has enabled more efficient monitoring, timely interventions, and personalized support, leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life.
Please share an example of how technology has given people greater independence.
- One example of how technology has been used to give someone greater independence is through smart home devices. For instance, a person with mobility challenges can control lights, thermostats, and appliances using voice commands or a smartphone app. Remote monitoring allows people the freedom and independence to live in their homes without in-person supports 24/7. This reduces their reliance on others for daily tasks, allowing them to live more autonomously and confidently in their own home.
How do you feel about the increased use of technology at Mainstay?
- I’m excited about technology at Mainstay because of its potential to transform the way we support people, enabling more personalized and effective care. The integration of advanced tools like remote monitoring, telehealth, and assistive devices not only enhances the quality of our services but also empowers the people we support to achieve greater independence and improved well-being. The continuous innovation in technology promises a future where we can provide even more responsive, efficient, and compassionate care.
What does it mean that Mainstay is accredited by SHIFT?
- Accreditation is now more crucial than ever as we aim to support a broader range of people with technology. We know that technology can be highly effective in helping people increase independence and achieve their goals, and by partnering with SHIFT we assure best practices are in place to achieve our common goals. It is also no surprise that a diminishing workforce and budget limitations continue to be a struggle, and by adopting innovative approaches and developing alternate service models, like Technology First, we will be better prepared to face these challenges and continue to impact more and more people’s lives in a positive way.