More than 8 million older adults in Latin America are unable to perform basic daily activities.

Taking a shower, eating, using the bathroom, getting in and out of bed—these are all basic activities of daily living that people perform independently. However, at a certain age, this is no longer always the case.

In Latin America and the Caribbean, there are currently approximately 8 million older adults with functional dependency . This refers to the inability to perform basic activities.

In the face of population aging, it is important to discuss the issue, as it would affect both the older adult and their caregiver , in addition to proposing some possible solutions.

What is functional dependency?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a person is considered functionally dependent when they are unable to perform activities necessary for daily living without the help of others for an extended period of time.

This assistance refers to the activities that others undertake to enable dependent persons to maintain a level of functional capacity compatible with their basic rights , fundamental freedoms and human dignity.

It is an issue that should be addressed by current governments, basically for three reasons:

1. Protecting the quality of life of older adults.
2. It's also a gender issue (women have a higher need for care services), and it frees up time for family caregivers and creates formal employment opportunities.
3. Reduce healthcare costs ( and therefore, less use of hospital and emergency services).

Functional dependency in Latin America and the Caribbean

In 2019, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) published a report on the long-term care landscape in Latin America and the Caribbean. Among other things, it noted that the region is aging at an unprecedented rate : In the next 30 years, the demand for long-term care services will triple the current level.

Aging would be directly related to functional dependence, since it would be more common in older adults than in the rest of the population.

Hence the importance of government, science, and society acting together to address this situation. It's not just about being prepared to support dependent individuals, but also about creating support strategies for their caregivers , while simultaneously advancing the gender agenda.

How to face the challenges of functional dependency?

The next step is to build a long-term care system . Clearly, achieving this requires investment, initiative, and, of course, teamwork.

According to the report published by the IDB, the starting point consists of six elements:

1. Choose beneficiaries based on their level of dependency, not their age.
2. Deliver transfers linked to the purchase of services.
3. Start with home care services.
4. Involve the private sector to generate formal employment.
5. Train human resources and establish quality standards.
6. Use blended financing to implement a single system.

Certainly, it requires coordinated work between authorities, specialists, citizens and, of course, technology.

On this last point, and related to caregivers for older adults, there are already products that allow them to optimize their work.

Tools to improve the care of dependent older adults

The following options are the result of technological innovation to serve this population while facilitating the activities of their caregivers.

Some of them are:

• Incontinence accessories . There are a variety of waterproof protectors designed for different areas: mattresses, seats, and cushions. Many of them are machine-washable, saving time and money, which is a financial relief for family members.
• Anti-bedsore mattresses . What should you do if an adult can no longer move independently? Their physical health is undoubtedly seriously compromised. But to help prevent this, there are mattresses made with materials that reduce the risk and offer extra protection, as well as unique comfort and ergonomic technology.
• Hygiene solutions . Direct contact with water brings many benefits to people. And no mobility issues should hinder them. Experts have developed portable showers that are easy to handle and offer minimal risk, as well as shampoo bowls and even collapsible buckets. Many of these products are even inflatable and have compact motors to make the job easier for caregivers.
• Infrastructure for transfers . Caregivers often injure their backs while supporting their patients and transferring them. Special belts now exist to secure the adult for safe transfer. There are even easy-to-install homemade hoists available so that patients can be transferred without compromising the physical health of their caregivers.
• Lift chairs . Did you know that it's no longer necessary to lift an elderly person to a sitting position? These chairs are activated with a single button and rise very slowly, allowing the adult to stand at their own pace. This makes it easier for caregivers to lead a much more independent life. Some even offer relaxing massages.

Technology at the service of functional dependency

The region comprising Latin America and the Caribbean faces one of the greatest challenges in its history. However, prevention will always be the most solid strategy to counter the effects of what is coming to this side of the world.

For now, addressing forecasts and understanding the target population will always be useful. Fortunately, technological innovation can work to meet the needs of society … regardless of age and level of dependency.