UofL Trager Institute Uses Technology to Reduce Social Isolation for Older Adults

The University of Louisville (UofL) Trager Institute is developing technologies and services to reduce social isolation for older adults while maintaining social distancing, reports UofL News . "We are working with community partners to bring technology and social supports to older adults facing increased social isolation due to the current pandemic," said Trager Institute Director Anna Faul. In April, the institute and the UofL School of Medicine's Brent Wright brought SmartGlasses technology to long-term care communities and primary care offices. Healthcare professionals who are with patients can don the Web-connected eyewear and dial in with an attending doctor, and a camera and microphone affixed to the glasses allow the physician to see and engage directly with patients in real time. Multiple organizations also have apportioned almost $190,000 in grants to the institute to expand additional resources. These range from telehealth and teletherapy for residents in long-term care communities, to staff and student training for virtual interdisciplinary care coordination and chronic disease management. "We are looking forward to the possibility of additional funds that will allow us to provide iPads and Bluetooth technology to vulnerable community-dwelling older adults in Jefferson County and several rural counties, to establish a mini-virtual health clinic network across multiple Appalachian counties, and to disseminate innovative contact tracing efforts through app-based, wearable devices and artificial intelligence-based services," Faul said.