Care and well-being via a screen: Can tablets really make a difference for frail older people living at home?

Background: In the Netherlands, the current policy states ‘self if possible, at home if possible, digital if possible’. This policy aims to provide older people with good and affordable care and support in the future, if needed. Care and social support are under pressure due to the increasing number of older people, while the number of care providers is not growing with them.

 

Approach: In response to this policy, a project in the Amsterdam region sought to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of integrated digital care through the Compaan table. Two nursing care facilities and one social care facility decided to join forces and deliver nursing and social care via a tablet, the Compaan.

The Compaan is a safe, user-friendly tablet for remote care, designed for people without digital experience. It offers easy access, security, and enjoyment.

In 2019, the three organisations established the Interprofessional Learning and Innovation Network (IP-LIN) with a University of Applied Sciences. This learning community brought together nursing and social work students, professionals, and teachers to co-learn, conduct research, and develop digital care interventions, via the Compaan.

 

Between 2023 and 2025, we devised, tested, and evaluated two digital integrated care interventions in the IP-LIN using an action research approach with quantitative and qualitative data. Participants included students, professionals, project leaders, trainers, managers, and older adults living at home. Two interventions were suitable for implementation: the digital half-hour exercise session and the digital welfare button.

 

Results: The first research cycle initiated the digital project in the IP-LIN. In subsequent cycles, integrated care innovations with the Compaan began. The developed digital half-hour exercise session proved particularly successful and is still being offered on a weekly basis. Clients rated it with an average score of eight out of ten and reported improved mobility, relaxation, and a sense of trust and connection with one another. The welfare button initially met the needs of the participating older adults; however, after six months, usage declined due to outdated content and limited engagement. This highlights the importance of regular updates and ongoing user involvement in maintaining the effectiveness of digital tools.

 

Implications: •Although developing and implementing integrated digital care and support require creativity and willingness on the part of all partners, this project shows that cross-domain learning and working is possible and has positive outcomes for all parties involved.

 

• Image-based care and well-being are particularly suitable for older people who do not yet require intensive care but need extra attention. There is still much to be gained in this field.

 

• Learning communities such as IP-LINs are an important breeding ground where professionals, students, and teachers can learn and innovate together. It is crucial to work together on a theme that is of interest to all the parties.