What advanced care can teach us about the future of AI in healthcare
The reactions were mixed together when a senior care facility in Michigan launched an AI-powered dining robot to its employees and residents. Most residents embraced the innovation and celebrated their future institutionally focused modernity. On the other hand, the staff were hesitant and worried that this might take their roles.
This tension is common throughout healthcare with AI. However, when well thought out, AI-powered tools can be used as workforce expanders. This technology can reduce physical stress in caregivers, reduce repetitive tasks and improve efficiency. This is especially important for the labor force that may discover the physical needs of their work, especially the taxed labor force.
The role of AI in solving the healthcare workforce crisis
The role of AI in healthcare and advanced care is expanding, and there is good reason: the U.S. healthcare industry is facing a severe labor shortage, especially among nurses, primary care physicians, and mental health professionals.
These shortages will worsen over the next decade as the global population age and healthcare demand grows, especially in rural and underserved areas. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) expects a nationwide shortage of 187,130 doctors by 2037.
In advanced care, staffing crisis is particularly severe. Burnout rate is rising. Many new workers lack training, while experienced employees fight physical losses in care. There has never been a demand for technology-driven support systems. AARP reported that since March 2020, nursing homes in the United States have lost about 235,000 jobs, equivalent to 15% of the workforce. This decline has resulted in one in five nursing homes underreported in the country.
Addressing the staffing crisis in advanced life requires a multifaceted approach, including increased pay, enhanced training programs, and integration of supportive technologies to ensure quality care for residents. There is no doubt that AI is a core component of the solution.
Reduce burnout and enhance clinical workflow
AI-powered assistants are already eliminating redundant tasks, easing administrative burdens and, in some cases, delivering accuracy beyond physicians. For example, environmental hearing tools automate documents by recording and summarizing patient access, drafting and insured coded access. By reducing provider late-night charts, these tools can help providers burnout and free time for direct patient care.
AI imaging also provides previously unimaginable levels of tumor detection, relieving stress from radiologists and pathologists through more accurate diagnosis to improve clinical decision-making. Collaborative Robots (COBOTS) improve workflow by obtaining medical records, patient items and medications, allowing nurses and other clinical staff to spend more time focusing on caring for patients.
However, for AI to be widely accepted, stakeholders must participate in their selection and implementation, whether in advanced care, hospital or outpatient settings. Imposing AI without employees or patients will inevitably lead to resistance.
How AI enhances advanced well-being
While technology is useful for addressing labor shortages, it is also changing the care itself. In addition to assisting employees, AI-powered technology can also help older people stay clearer, safer and more independent.
One tool to make a difference in this population is a Swiss-designed “drive” device that helps older people improve cognitive function, balance and reflexes. A senior living facility has pilots with 36 residents in eight weeks, with cognitive errors down 30-50%, while response times are significantly improved.
For some residents, this technology has changed lives. A woman with Parkinson's disease worked on a machine for a year. Her gait became smoother and her reflexes improved. Finally, she could do some exercises without insisting on, something she never thought of.
Digital health tools can also increase confidence and independence, thereby reducing the likelihood of falls and hospitalizations. However, staying involved can be a challenge. Like any fitness habit, people start to be strong and over time. The key to success is continuous encouragement, the formation of social motivations and new habits.
Technology that supports AI has also made great progress in drug management. AI-driven drug management tools have the potential to support independence and reduce employee workload. These tools can improve adherence and outcomes in advanced care settings
Lessons from entrepreneurs and innovators
For startups, tech companies and nonprofits trying to make an impact in a healthcare-related environment, there are key principles to remember:
– Design that considers dignity
Patients, including older people, often reject technology that feels clinical or infantilized. More likely to accept stylish and cautious designs, such as high-tech walkers that are more like personal accessories than medical devices.
– AI focused on enhancing independence
Throughout the age group, patients want to maintain control over their lives. The best AI solutions enable self-sufficiency rather than passive monitoring. For example, an AI-powered autonomous wheelchair can provide patients with greater mobility and allow them to move freely without relying on caregivers.
– Test and co-create with advanced living facilities
Too many technology companies design without real-world investment. Attracting caregivers, clinicians and patients early in this process leads to better outcomes and adoption. The best AI solutions strike a balance between security and freedom.
The opportunity for more innovative and human-centered design in a healthcare environment goes far beyond the older adults. A 2024 paper highlights the need for better options for patients relying on the 2.8 million IV poles currently being used by U.S. hospitals. Young patients will also benefit from autonomous wheelchairs, food delivery robots, portable user-friendly diagnostic equipment, and other technologies to improve their in-house and home experience.
It is crucial to engage patients and caregivers in conversations about new technologies. Both patients and healthcare workers should have the opportunity to share their impressions. While they may not always have the same preferences, the best technical solutions will enhance the everyday experience of both.
The Future of AI in Healthcare and Advanced Care
AI has begun to undermine healthcare and will continue to change the way it delivers. Advanced care innovation provides a glimpse of what is coming, while providing useful lessons for the wider healthcare field. Successful AI-enabled technologies will improve results, reduce burdens and increase autonomy.
However, technology alone will never be the solution. Successful adoption will depend on thoughtful implementation, stakeholder engagement, and the commitment to retain dignity, autonomy and high-quality human interaction. Patients, older people and caregivers must all actively participate in these innovations to ensure they meet real-world needs.
By embracing these principles, we can help build a more efficient, compassionate and lasting healthcare system. For entrepreneurs, especially those targeting advanced care, the opportunity is enormous. As the population ages rapidly, the need for innovative and dignified AI solutions has never been higher.
Photo: Noipho, Getty Images
Leslie Pascaud is a marketing and communications leader with a track record of driving business transformation for consumer goods, B2B/Digital Health and nonprofit health organizations around the world. She has served in operations leadership and strategic consulting roles in the United States and Europe, pioneering initiatives for brand awareness, relevance and revenue growth. Leslie co-founded Purpose Brand Practice at Kantar Consulting and is currently a consultant to the Kinetic Strategic Consulting Group.
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