Wednesday, November 26, 2008

More than 200 vendors were in Orlando last week for the Assisted Living Federation of America's annual Conference and Expo. With so many familiar vendors on hand, it was easy to overlook an emerging niche: firms devoted to preserving and improving residents' cognitive abilities. Yet there's little doubt that these new entrants are here to stay. These companies are helping residents live better lives, and in many cases are literally keeping people from losing their minds. There's much to like about this development, and it will be wonderful to watch this part of the eldercare services field blossom in the years ahead.

Nonin Medical recently unveiled the world's first fingertip oximeter with Bluetooth wireless technology. The Onyx II Model 9560 fingertip pulse oximeter helps providers monitor vital signs more effectively, according to the firm.

Caregivers are used to taking care of others. Now a new tool helps them take better care of themselves. LifeClick.com has developed an online tool performs thousands of scientific calculations to build personalized health improvement plans.

The Periscope LED Book Light in a Bookcover allows providers to read manuals, books and other documents in dimly lit areas. Simply slip your book (or document) into the cover and pull up the telescoping light, which automatically turns it on. The light is powered by three AA batteries that deliver over 40 hours of continuous light, according to the manufacturer. The product is available at Barnes & Noble bookstores.

Keane announced that it has signed a $1.5 million five-year contract with Golden Living. Under the deal, Keane will implement documentation and e-prescribing software that's designed to improve efficiency and patient safety. The software is part of its NetSolutions clinical application. The move will help Golden Living deliver meds more effectively, according to both firms.

Medline Industries has signed a three-year agreement to purchase mouth rinse from Chester Labs, a manufacturer of liquid products for personal care, infection control and diagnostic use in medical facilities.

Google has launched Google Health. This medical records service business will allow users to store and manage healthcare information online. To ensure privacy, Google built a separate, secure computer platform. However, privacy advocates have expressed doubts about the firm's long-term ability to keep such information safe from tampering or snooping.