A OECD report published in 2020 presents the most important policies to attract and retain enough care workers in the long-term care sector.
Among different strategies, it highlights the importance of improving the work processes of care workers and increase productivity by enhancing the use of technology. Three main approaches where discussed that are essential to the reap the benefits of technologies in the long-term care sector:
- Enhancing care workers‘ digital skills
According to a survey involving 200 European care workers, a striking 80% of participants reported lacking adequate training or receiving no training at all in health technologies.
- Fostering a better understanding of how technologies can support carers’ tasks
Care workers are often sceptical about new technologies, expressing concerns about potential depersonalisation of care or compromising the care recipient’s safety and privacy. Strengthening the care workers’ perspectives on how best to use technologies for the benefit of care provision becomes an important focus.
- Tailoring regulatory frameworks
In the realm of technology-driven care, it is crucial to establish ethical and privacy regulations that protect users and guidelines that help care workers to navigate these complex issues.
Thus, a multifaceted approach is required to addresse these challenges associated with technology adotption in the care sector.
