Choosing aged care? Why digital tools could mean better care

When you’re looking for the right aged care provider, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, there’s a lot to think about: the people, the place, the quality of care… However, one thing that often gets overlooked is something you can’t always see: the digital systems working behind the scenes.

Research from the Australian e-Health Research Centre reveals that how well a provider uses digital tools — from care records to smart home tech — can make a big difference to the safety, quality and continuity of aged care.

So, what is digital health — and why should you care?

1. It helps everyone stay on the same page

Have you or someone you know ever had to repeat your entire medical history, again and again, when moving from hospital to aged care or between services?

Digital health systems that ‘talk to each other’ mean your vital information follows you wherever you go. Your medications, care preferences and any health concerns are already there for the next team — no forms, no retelling, no chance of missing something important.

Real-life benefit
If your mum is discharged from the hospital into residential care and the aged care provider uses integrated health records, her new care team will know everything they need from day one.

2. Good data = better care

The best aged care providers don’t just respond when something goes wrong; they monitor, measure and improve all the time. Providers that use standardised digital systems can track trends like falls, mobility or social isolation and act early to prevent problems.

It’s a bit like regular check-ups for your car; a good provider uses data to keep your care running smoothly.

Look for homes that monitor well-being, track changes over time and are transparent about their care quality.

3. It can help you stay independent

Technology doesn’t just support care teams, it can also help older people live more independently and safely.

One innovation highlighted in the report is the Smarter Safer Homes platform. It uses small, non-invasive sensors in the home to detect daily routines and flag unusual changes, like someone not getting out of bed in the morning.

Some residential care homes are also starting to introduce these kinds of tools to improve safety and reassurance.

4. You and your family can stay informed

Today’s aged care isn’t just about the resident but the whole support circle. Digital systems can allow residents and families to access real-time updates, care notes and weekly activities through easy-to-use portals.

Why it matters
If your dad’s in care, you might be able to log in to see what he’s been up to, check messages from his care team or confirm when his next medical appointment is booked.

5. National projects are making it all easier

Behind the scenes, national efforts like the Sparked FHIR Accelerator are helping connect the dots between hospitals, GPs and aged care. The goal is seamless communication and safer care, no matter where you live.

It’s still in the early days, but it’s a sign that the system is evolving in the right direction.

What should you ask when speaking with a provider?

Next time you’re touring an aged care home or chatting with a provider, consider asking the following questions.

• Do you use digital systems to share care info with hospitals and doctors?
• Can families access updates online?
• Do you track resident well-being over time?
• Do you use any technology to support resident safety or independence?
• Are you working with national digital health programs?

Providers who embrace digital systems often signal a culture of transparency, innovation, and quality care.

Need help comparing providers?

Tools like the Aged Care Guide can help you search for aged care homes, filter by location, compare services and see what support each provider offers, including whether they use advanced care technologies.

You don’t need to be a tech expert to appreciate the benefits of digital health. When aged care providers use smart systems, it leads to better coordination, safer care and more peace of mind for families.