Shannex manager says pilot program is helping take some pressure off overcrowded hospital beds

A long-term care home in Cape Breton is admitting residents with challenging behaviours, such as aggression, who would otherwise have to take up space in a hospital bed.

It’s part of a provincially funded three-year pilot program through the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care being carried out at the Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility in Sydney, N.S.

Harbourstone is having great success using wearable technology and trained staff to track residents and direct them toward positive activities, when needed, said Harbourstone manager Kyle Richardson.

It starts with an assessment involving the resident, their family and their care team…….