The evolution of assisted living provider services (ALPS) to support twenty‐first century health, social care and housing needs

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to demonstrate the need for telecare service providers to broaden their horizons in order to offer an extended range of service options when considering the holistic needs of vulnerable people who wish to remain independent in the community.Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes the processes involved in establishing a telecare service to include the provision of all forms of assistive technologies including aids and adaptations and elements of standalone telecare, which are particularly relevant to families of people with learning disabilities. The work includes a review of a survey of local authorities which demonstrates a clear expansion of AT provision.Findings – The Nottingham model of assisted living provider services is proposed as an example of how home improvements, community equipment and telecare/health services may be integrated.Originality/value – The implications of these changes are discussed in the context of additional resources needed for improved pre...