|
There are currently 35 million people over the age of 65 in the United States, and by 2030, that number is anticipated to grow to 51.4 million, with 7.1 million of those individuals over the age of 85. This significantly aging population will demand far greater quantities healthcare services than ever before. Currently 73% of the elderly population receives some sort of home health care, with 1.4 million elderly persons residing in nursing homes due to a need for constant assistance. Furthermore, approximately 35% of that population suffers from some form of heart disease. The elderly have an excellent opportunity to monitor their heart rate, respiration, EKG, and a host of other vital signs without hampering their comfort and freedom of movement. Patients with varying degrees of infirmity could feel secure in their knowledge that medical aid can arrive in a timely fashion, while not feeling constricted by the presence of multiple wires or electrodes. |