In today’s world, where an increasing number of people desire to age in place, the home care sector has an unparalleled opportunity to redefine how we deliver care. A recent study by Birdie found that 69% of people aged 65 and over wish to remain at home as they age, highlighting a growing shift from traditional, hospital-based models of care to more community-centred approaches. At Astute Home Care, we believe technology holds the key to meeting this demand with quality and consistency.

Challenges in the Home Care Sector

Despite the opportunity, the sector faces significant challenges. Recruitment and retention are primary concerns, with a vacancy rate for carer positions at 8%, nearly triple the national average. The pay structure also contributes to this issue, as home care workers often have to travel between clients with limited compensation for travel time.

Another key challenge is coordination. Hospitals and discharge teams often struggle to connect with care providers efficiently, which can lead to frustrating delays. Addressing these issues requires a commitment to better technology integration, smarter commissioning practices, and a concerted effort to elevate the status of care professionals.

Leveraging Technology to Improve Quality of Care

At Astute Home Care, we are partnering with Birdie to bring the benefits of digital transformation to our clients and their families. Digitising records enables our carers to access critical information quickly, ensuring continuity of care that aligns with clients' preferences and care plans.

One practical example of this transformation is how Birdie has helped us reduce the time needed to complete a Medication Administration Record (MAR) chart. Previously, this task could take up to 45 minutes; now, it takes only 10. This time savings translates directly into more quality time with our clients, which, in turn, enhances their care experience. Technology like Birdie’s platform allows us to use data to identify patterns and anticipate clients’ needs, potentially preventing hospital visits and easing the strain on the NHS.

Empowering Clients and Families

Empowering clients and their families is at the core of our mission. With Birdie’s Family App, family members have real-time access to updates about their loved ones’ care, fostering transparency and trust. This empowerment goes beyond convenience – it provides peace of mind and a deeper connection to the care journey.

Efficiency Equals Better Care

Efficiency in home care is not about cutting corners. It’s about optimising processes so that we can reallocate resources to where they matter most – direct client care. At Astute, every minute saved on administrative tasks through technology translates to more time spent engaging with clients. This time allows us to provide a more holistic, person-centred approach that focuses on emotional well-being, companionship, and tailored support.

Our experience with Birdie’s technology has shown us that improving efficiency can enhance care outcomes. By streamlining tasks and freeing up our carers’ time, we’re not only improving the quality of life for our clients but also creating a more sustainable and satisfying work environment for our dedicated staff.

Looking Forward

As we move forward, Astute Home Care is committed to embracing technological innovation to transform home care. By partnering with forward-thinking companies like Birdie, we’re working towards a future where aging at home is a safe, dignified, and accessible option for everyone. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this evolution in care, where technology and compassion come together to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our clients and their families.