Ontario government exploring new technologies to protect people at risk of wandering
Leading Edge
Technology Can Help Give Families Peace of Mind
TORONTO, June 30 /CNW/ - The Ontario government
is launching a project to
test
the effectiveness of new technologies in protecting vulnerable people who
are
at risk of wandering from their caregivers, Community and Social Services
Minister
Sandra Pupatello announced today.
"For
some people, inadvertent wandering is a reality and fear that their
caregivers
must contend with," said Pupatello. "We all have a
responsibility
to
help protect vulnerable people, and we welcome any suggestions that can
improve
their health and safety."
The project will help the government and
community agencies to:
- Better
understand how locating technology can be used to improve the
safety
and security of individuals with autism, developmental
disabilities,
Alzheimer's and other conditions that may increase the
risk
of wandering
-
Give families and caregivers an opportunity to test the usefulness
of
new
technologies in protecting the people in their care
-
Determine which technologies are the most effective in a variety of
situations
- family and group homes, rural and urban settings.
The government is calling on technology
developers to submit Expressions
of
Interest by August 2, 2005 to participate in the project. After an initial
review,
applicants will submit a detailed proposal that outlines their
proposed
approach to working with community organizations to test the various
technologies.
Participation in the project would be voluntary for individuals
and
families.
"This
technology may help families caring for people with Alzheimer's
disease
at home," said Minister Responsible for Seniors Jim Bradley. "We
want
to
make sure that this technology enhances the lifestyles of vulnerable
seniors
while respecting their privacy."
Three
to four pilot locations will be chosen later this year with the
pilots
running for one year. Following the pilots, evaluations of the project
will
be conducted by an independent reviewer.
"We
know that locating technology is just one of a number of ways to keep
people
safe from harm, and if they can protect one vulnerable person, or give
one
family greater peace of mind, then it's something worth exploring,"
said
Pupatello.
"We have one goal: to increase safety and security for people who
may
not always be able to take care of themselves."
