Author: Loader B D, Hardey M, Keeble L
Journal: International Journal of Social Welfare, 2008
Volume/pages: Vol 17, pp46-53

About the study
This study reports on the review of the literature surrounding the use of ICT to aid integrated care for older people through the sharing of information between health and social care agencies as well as the potential for using ICT in person-centred approaches to independent living. It discusses the research already conducted in this area and the barriers to integrated ICT systems.

Findings
There is little evidence that ICT has been successfully used in this area. The success of any system no matter how user–friendly and efficient is dependent on the willingness of health and social care professionals to share the information with each other.The authors also found that the success of any telecare system will be dependent on people feeling that the content is relevant to their life experiences.

Key messages

• Concerns amongst health and social care professionals about sharing service user information must be addressed in order to ensure the success of any information sharing system.
• A clear debate is needed on the desired objectives and outcomes of new shared ICT systems in order to avoid the existing contradictions and confusion being built into the system.