The evolution of assisted living provider services (ALPS) to support twenty‐first century health, social care and housing needs

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate the need for telecare service providers to broaden their horizons in order to offer an extended range of service options when considering the holistic needs of vulnerable people who wish to remain independent in the community.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the processes involved in establishing a telecare service to include the provision of all forms of assistive technologies including aids and adaptations and elements of standalone telecare, which are particularly relevant to families of people with learning disabilities. The work includes a review of a survey of local authorities which demonstrates a clear expansion of AT provision.

Findings

The Nottingham model of assisted living provider services is proposed as an example of how home improvements, community equipment and telecare/health services may be integrated.

Originality/value

The implications of these changes are discussed in the context of additional resources needed for improved prescribing, installation and support.

Citation

Miles, D. and Doughty, K. (2011), "The evolution of assisted living provider services (ALPS) to support twenty‐first century health, social care and housing needs", Journal of Assistive Technologies, Vol. 5 No. 3, pp. 140-145. https://doi.org/10.1108/17549451111173497