Applying Text Mining to Identify the Need for Long-Term Care Facilities to Introduce Smart Technology

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Informatics
• Technology Adoption

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing shortages in caregiving personnel.
• There is a growing trend towards integrating medical technology to ease caregiving burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the demand for smart technologies in long-term care institutions.
• To identify specific areas where technological assistance is most needed.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative data collection through interviews.
• Analysis of interview data using text mining techniques.

Main Results:

• Identified a significant demand for smart technology integration.
• Key areas of need include assistance with patient mobility.
• Enhanced medication safety and streamlined caregiving record-keeping are crucial.

Conclusions:

• Smart technologies are essential for addressing caregiving shortages in long-term care.
• Future technological development should focus on mobility, medication safety, and record management.