Two brothers have won a national award for using IT to make care homes safer by cutting the risk of falls and other emergencies.
Samir and Anish Patel scooped the Stars of Social Care technology and innovation award at a ceremony hosted by Josie Gibson, a presenter on ITV's This Morning.
The brothers run Oaklands Rest Home in Marchwood, where innovative technology is being used to enhance the safety and wellbeing of the residents.
They have introduced several ground-breaking technologies, including digital individualised care plans and a night-time monitoring system called Ally Acoustic.
The system uses artificial intelligence to learn the normal sounds and behaviours in a resident's room and alerts carers to any unusual activity -including someone getting out of bed - to prevent falls.
On one occasion it identified an abnormal coughing pattern, enabling staff to detect a potential Covid case and prevent the virus from spreading throughout the home.
READ MORE: Oaklands rest home in Marchwood honoured at Caring UK awards ceremony
The brothers have used their experience to set up iCare Services, which helps care homes across the UK take advantage of the latest technology.
Samir Patel said: "Anish and I are deeply humbled and immensely proud to have won the Technology and Innovation Award at the Stars of Social Care 2024.
“Our mission has always been to push the boundaries of social care through technological advancements, to enhance the wellbeing and safety of residents while delivering outstanding person-centred care.
“We are incredibly grateful to our supportive community and team. This award is not just a win for us, but for everyone who strives to make a difference in the lives of those we care for."
Last year Oaklands won the Management Team of the Year title at the Caring UK Awards after beating a record number of rival contenders.
READ MORE: Residents enjoy fringe benefits as Oaklands Rest Home opens its own hairdressing salon
Speaking at the time, Samir said: "This exceptional recognition is testament to the dedication, compassion, and outstanding commitment of the entire Oaklands team.
"Our staff's commitment to excellence has undoubtedly made a significant difference in the community, and it is heartening to see their efforts recognised on a national level.
"It’s not the management alone, but the collective spirit, collaboration, and hard work that makes Oaklands such an extraordinary and award-winning establishment.”
The awards were organised by Script Events in partnership with Caring UK.
Event director Dominic Musgrave said: "This year’s winners should be very proud – the high standard of entries made it a tough job to select a final shortlist, never mind a winner and runner-up in each category."
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