Miele Professional – How do we create quality of life?

People are living longer, healthier lives. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the population aged 60 and older is rapidly growing in Europe and is projected to be 300 million by 2050. This does create challenges. From escalating demand on healthcare services and social assistance through to a lack of carers and limited residential places in care homes, we must seek new ways to support independence amongst our ageing population.

To help elderly people remain independent and have a more enriching and healthier lifestyle, more focus is being placed on quality of life. The broadest definition of quality of life refers to the overall well-being, comfort, and satisfaction experienced by an individual.

As we start to get older, there are things that we unfortunately can no longer do without support, which can lead individuals to lose their sense of purpose. That’s why keeping quality of life a high priority for residents in care and nursing homes is essential, facilitating a life with purpose.

Creating personalised quality of life plans

Maintaining a good quality of life requires a different approach for everyone ,meaning that personalised plans need to be created based on specific needs. For example, for those who suffer with mobility issues, adjustments can be made within the care home to ensure residents do not strain or hurt themselves when undertaking everyday tasks. Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) can also be implemented to promote an independent environment. AAL involves the use of technology such as smart devices, wireless networks, software applications and medical sensors, which greatly reduces the dependence on carers.

Cherishing our loved ones

The role of family, friends and loved ones is a highly important aspect of quality of life, as loneliness and social isolation is a major issue in older adults which can lead to depression as well as increased visits to the hospital. For those with mobility issues, technology such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and computers can play a significant role in making communication more accessible.

Protecting our vulnerable

One area that underpins quality of life is infection control. Whether it’s hygienically cleaned laundry for their treasured items of clothing, or thoroughly cleaned cutlery and crockery; residents deserve high quality results in all aspects of their lives. Solutions by Miele Professional have been specifically created for the care sector, which reduce the risk of contagious diseases, promote overall health, and ensure a safe environment.

The future of quality of life

Every day, technology is advancing. Robotics, for example, are being developed to bring companionship to the elderly and to help them with everyday tasks such as getting out of bed. Other digital innovations have already started to become engrained in everyday life in care homes, such as sensor monitors and wearable technologies for emergencies. Pilot schemes which use Artificial Intelligence (AI) are also being deployed to prevent falls and hospital visits.

Miele Professional

At Miele Professional, we recognise that quality of life is a broad and complex topic. With hygiene playing a crucial role in care homes post-pandemic, we support care homes to overcome challenges together with our 360PRO solutions; to deliver the highest standards of cleanliness. This allows carers to focus on what’s truly important, delivering the best quality of care to its residents for a happy and healthy life.

To find out more, please visit: https://www.miele.co.uk/p/retirement-care-homes-4053.htm