By Tim Janssen, Sengistix
Sengistix, LLC is the Diamond Sponsor of the 2018 ARRM Annual Conference
Technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. From transportation to home automation, we are part of a digital transformation. Moore’s Law says that the processing power of technology doubles approximately every 18 months (Source 1); many technologists argue the rate could be even shorter in the 21st century. Many of us have family members who remember the days of calling a switchboard operator to be connected to their friend down the road, and now they can communicate with that same person without ever picking up a telephone (and soon, they may be asking, “What’s a telephone, anyway?”). These same beloved folks can now get all essential items delivered to their door in two days or less, a feat only minutely comparable to the milkman of yesteryear.
Reveling in the possibilities at our fingertips is amazing – but when doing so we must consider how technology impacts the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). It is our duty as advocates, family, and friends to be thinking of the possibilities technology can make available to those we care about.
At Sengistix, we are humbled to be a part of many individuals’ path to increased autonomy and independence. The use of remote support technologies such as sensors, medication dispensers, and, yes, cameras, can allow individuals to live in their desired environment while knowing a safety net is in place. Not only is safety being improved through the notification of individuals, natural supports, and staff of important happenings in a home, but new relationships are being established. For example, our friend Joe counts on Sengistix to remotely support him by observing his self-administration of meds, but also appreciates seeing familiar faces on his computer each morning before work asking what his plan is for the day. He recently sent us photos from prom, including the shiny crown he sported all evening. Joe’s support team never imagined his network would grow through the use of technology. He is happy to share that it has!
It may feel like technology is moving at the speed of light while human services are moving at a slightly slower pace. That is even more reason to ensure individuals with IDD are kept abreast of the possibilities! Sengistix is always open to sharing more stories like Joe’s, and discussing the options available to support new goals.
Tim Janssen is Operations Director for Sengistix, LLC. Sengistix is a provider of a full array of technology-based remote supports. Sengistix is responding to the transformation of the health and human services system by bringing new automated sensing technology solutions to caregivers that improve safety, enhance the quality of life, and increase options for greater independence for all individuals requiring support.
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