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Care Technology Glossary of Terms

We have compiled a list of key terms used in the technology-enabled care sector. This resource will be continuously reviewed and updated. Please inform us if there are any terms you would like to see added to the glossary.

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  • M2M is a connection between devices, often wireless, where human input is not necessarily required. Commonly used examples of M2M are smart metering (where the meter reports energy use back to a central billing database) or a digital telecare alarm, which may contain a SIM card to enable communication with a monitoring centre.
  • Matter is an open-source protocol designed so that any company can use it to make smart home devices, mobile apps and cloud services communicate and work together. It is royalty-free with manufacturers only incurring certification costs. It is supported by various companies including Amazon, Apple, Comcast, Google, SmartThings/Samsung and the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA – previously Zigbee Alliance.)
  • An abbreviation of mobile care, it refers to care and support functions and services that can be managed at a distance using mobile communication technologies and devices.
  • A device that can be filled with prescribed pills by a suitably qualified or authorised person and then programmed to release an appropriate dose (or make the pills available) at set times to help with medication adherence.
  • mHealth, or mobile health, refers to the use of smart or portable devices for health services and information. eHealth/mHealth encompasses a vast spectrum of healthcare services, from electronic prescribing and medical records to text message prompts reminding patients to take their medicines.
  • A 24/7 remote call centre to which information concerning the status of one or more alarm systems is reported and where actions can be initiated and monitored. It also allows people to connect with call handlers to discuss their health and support needs. Sometimes also referred to as an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC).
  • This refers to the hardware and software applications used in a Telecare Monitoring Centre or ARC that enable Call Handlers to accept and process alarm calls from equipment installed in people’s homes. The platform receives alarm information, displays the alarm type and information about the service user, and sets up a two-way voice call so that the call handler can assist as required. As telecare moves away from alarm monitoring and focusses more on data monitoring, the applications supported by monitoring platforms will increase to include data dashboards, alert monitoring and device management.