Enhancing Patient Care Through Innovative Technology: Insights from Albert Lea Tribune

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A caregiver checks Joyce Fredin’s temperature at The Meadows of St. John’s Lutheran Community while her husband, Norm, watches. Joyce is among 17 residents using new remote monitoring tech. Sarah Stultz/Albert Lea Tribune

The Zemplee system uses sensors in each apartment to monitor vitals like blood pressure and temperature.

St. John’s Lutheran Community has introduced a remote patient monitoring system approved by residents, aiming to enhance care in their memory care unit, The Meadows.

CEO Shanna Eckberg explained that remote monitoring has evolved over the past few decades. Originally, doctors would call patients to check in; now, technology enables a more sophisticated approach.

The Zemplee system employs artificial intelligence to monitor vital signs and movements through sensors placed throughout each resident’s apartment.

Eckberg appreciates that the system is entirely sensor-based without any cameras. She highlighted that the system’s founder created it out of a desire to support aging parents living far away.

The goal is to start with The Meadows, where staff can efficiently monitor a small group of residents to improve care based on their sleep patterns and daily activities.

“It does not replace staff,” Eckberg said. “It’s just a helpful tool to assist them.”

Brandy Boettcher, assisted living director, shared details about the system. Each resident has a hub, and small sensors track activities like door usage and bathroom visits, creating a baseline for normal behavior.

If something seems off, the system alerts staff quickly. Currently, 17 residents chose to participate, and they are already familiar with having their vitals checked regularly.

The technology is managed by Twin Cities Physicians, who collaborate closely with the facility staff and visit frequently.

Though the system began running in October, it takes time for its AI to learn each resident’s habits. After about six to eight weeks, it can detect variations in health and daily routines.

“This helps us understand our residents even better,” said Boettcher.

Families of participants are hopeful about the technology’s benefits. If a family member exhibits unusual behavior, staff can review the data to better address their needs.

“Our goal is to reduce emergency visits,” Eckberg said. “We can act faster when we notice changes.”

Kathlene Tiegs, a registered nurse, appreciates the ability to monitor residents discreetly, especially since routine checks can create anxiety in memory care patients.

Eckberg is excited about the potential of this technology to extend beyond the facility, possibly allowing seniors to use it in their homes as well.