Healthcare is advancing in front of our eyes and, in the last few years, there have been huge advancements in numerous healthcare technologies. In order to be able to control technology, we need to become familiar with the advancements taking place and how this can improve healthcare services across the board.
The future of healthcare lies in technology and both healthcare workers and patients need to better understand these advancements in order to better embrace these emerging technologies. We can’t stop medical and healthcare technology from developing and, at some point, almost every aspect of our lives will be changed somewhat with technology. With that in mind, here are 3 ways that technology is changing healthcare and what we can expect from these advancements.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality is being used in more and more industries, healthcare being one of them. The use of VR is being used in many situations, from surgical training to dental procedures. From this, the results of VR in healthcare are showing promising results already, with surgeons trained using VR seeing around a 230% increase in their surgical performance than their colleagues who were trained using traditional methods. By using VR, it allows surgeons to be more experienced in treating a wider range of conditions, which is not only beneficial for them, but for the patient.
In dentistry, many clinics have now utilised VR as part of their everyday treatments and consultations. Teeth straightening treatments are one example where VR can be used on a regular and consistent basis. By using VR scanners, dentists can create imagery that shows the patient their teeth both before and after treatment, which then enhances their experience and expectations.
Healthcare Trackers
The future of medicine and healthcare is also greatly connected to patients and their independent responsibility towards their health. With the advancement of wearable health technology, such as fitness watches and exercise sensors, patients are becoming more and more aware of their health and wellness. Healthcare trackers are great devices that we can use to learn more about our health and how we can take control of our lives.
Some healthcare trackers monitor sleep, heart rate, workouts and step count, all of which can help you to set more fitness goals to improve your health and wellness. In the near future, you can expect to see more advanced health trackers become available in the health and wellness market that are able to detect and monitor more advanced health concerns, such as iron deficiency, diabetes and heart disease. They can also be used to monitor medication and mental health by allowing you to track your day to day moods, feelings and emotions.
Improve Your Memory
As we age, our brain changes and you may notice that your memory skills begin to deteriorate. Your brain is a muscle and, the more you use it, the stronger it becomes. There is some debate as to whether daily use of technology can lead to a premature breakdown in cognitive abilities, leading to memory issues.
However, when it comes to improving memory and treating patients with advanced brain disorders and memory-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia, technology can play a crucial role. From at-home automated systems that provide prompts and reminders for day to day tasks, to hospital-based treatment facilities, technology plays a huge part in allowing patients suffering from Dementia and Alzheimer’s to lead a more supported life.
If you want to improve your memory, then there are some day to day things you can do to keep your brain active. Activities, such as sudoku, jigsaws and crossword puzzles, can help to improve your mental speed and short-term memory, as well as concentration and problem-solving. Compared to teens and young adults, who may find that their brain function decreases slightly when using technology, older adults may find that their memory improves when using technology, apps and social media. As it is something that doesn’t come as naturally, it encourages older adults to learn and figure out things that they wouldn’t usually, all improving cognitive function.
Supplements such as vitamin B complex can help to support brain function and health, so should be taken daily. It’s important to note, however, that if you do notice your memory and brain function deteriorate significantly, seek advice from your doctor.
