NB-IRDT and APPTA report details pros and cons of virtual geriatric care
Author: UNB Newsroom
Posted on Jan 13, 2021
Category: UNB Fredericton
The New Brunswick Institute for Research, Data and Training (NB-IRDT) and the AGE-WELL National Innovation Hub APPTA have released an evidence synthesis detailing the benefits and challenges of virtual geriatric care in New Brunswick.
NB-IRDT staff Eton Boco and Kyle Rogers prepared the report, with joint support from Jenna Roddick and Samuel Hunter at APPTA.
The report provides an overview of the various types of virtual care solutions, their usage among Canadians and older adults more specifically, the benefits and challenges associated with their adoption, and a set of evidence-informed policy considerations for future healthcare decision-making.
Currently, older adults represent 16.5 per cent of the Canadian population and 19.5 per cent of the population in New Brunswick. In 2038, older Canadians are expected to make up 24 per cent of the population, with that number rising to 31 per cent in New Brunswick.
Findings suggest that the healthcare system resources in New Brunswick are not currently positioned to sufficiently meet the unique care and treatment needs required by older adults, especially as more are choosing to remain in their own homes and communities for longer. To provide the care necessary to support older adults to age in place, updated healthcare delivery pathways need to be established, and virtual methods could be a key driver of positive disruption in healthcare.
The full report can be read in English and French on APPTA.
Photo credit: Shutterstock