A new report detailing the findings from ACE's nine workshops sheds light on the primary needs and challenges facing homecare in Europe.
The ACE project was initiated to tackle the mounting pressures on healthcare systems in the North Sea (NS) region, driven by its ageing population. Our objective is to accelerate the adoption and implementation of homecare technologies for older adults in NS countries while addressing the most pressing challenges.
One of the initial activities of the project involved hosting nine workshops across five countries (Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France), gathering 193 representatives from governmental bodies, academia, SMEs, care organisations, informal and formal care providers, as well as older adults. By engaging various representatives of society, a nuanced understanding of these challenges could be obtained.
The workshops aimed to identify the major challenges and needs for both older adults and formal caregivers across this region, as well as country-specific challenges. By understanding these aspects, the ACE projects activities will foster the adoption of new home care technologies.
The outcomes of the workshops have been summarised in a new report co-authored by ACE consortium members Coosje Hammink and Prof. dr. Masi Mohammadi of HAN University of Applied Sciences.
The report delves into the variances and similarities among the participating countries, the primary challenges concerning digital literacy, issues related to growing demand and demographics, opportunities to bridge the digital divide, and the diverse impacts on various stakeholder groups, among other topics.
The main conclusions highlight that piloting homecare technology across different countries necessitates a multifaceted approach that respects each country's unique regulatory, financial, cultural, and infrastructural landscapes. The successful implementation of these technologies hinges not only on the innovations themselves but also on how well they are integrated into existing healthcare ecosystems. Recognising these complexities and tailoring the pilot projects accordingly is crucial for their success and for making a meaningful impact on the lives of older adults.
It is essential to work closely with local stakeholders, ensuring that initiatives are adaptable and responsive to the specific needs and conditions within each region. This collaboration, combined with a commitment to ongoing learning and adaptation, is vital for overcoming the challenges of deploying homecare technology in diverse settings. By approaching these initiatives with flexibility and a deep understanding of the local contexts, we can significantly enhance the adoption and effectiveness of homecare solutions, ultimately improving the quality of life for older adults across Europe.
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