Artificial intelligence is no longer science fiction. AI is revolutionizing nearly every aspect of modern society, with healthcare and senior living being no exception. But many people are still wary of technological advances in AI systems and machine learning, particularly when it comes to their physical and psychological well-being. In fact, a recent Pew Research study shows most U.S. citizens reported being concerned about the use of AI in healthcare, and 75% said their biggest worry is that AI adoption is happening too quickly.
We can’t stop progress, but it’s important to realize that artificial intelligence is a powerful tool — whether it’s helpful or harmful all depends on how we wield it. For senior living communities, it will soon become critical to implement an AI governance policy to ensure you’re using only ethical and responsible AI practices, and to reassure your residents and their families.
Below, we’ll outline some of the finer points of why and how to design and implement a responsible AI governance framework in your senior living community, and how the right software can help you protect the data privacy of your residents.
It’s likely not a surprise to you that your senior residents expect technology to be present and used in your community. But just like all your other documented internal processes, you need to have a legal framework outlining your responsible use of AI technology, for the safety of both residents and staff.
Generative AI and machine learning come with certain risks, particularly when it comes to sensitive personal data. The impact of AI has already become an enormous concern in the healthcare world, as artificial intelligence brings up new concerns around HIPAA regulations. To properly create an AI governance framework, you’ll need to develop a strategy for both risk assessment and risk management, so you understand the vulnerabilities of your employees and your residents, and then develop a policy for responsible AI usage.
Ethical AI goes far beyond complying with already established privacy laws like HIPAA and GDPR. Why is AI governance so critical to stakeholders and residents in the current state of senior living?
First and foremost, AI must be used responsibly to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. While AI tools can be used as effective and positive supports in healthcare management, they should not be relied on over actual human decision-making processes. Your AI governance practices should always lean on human expertise and oversight for appropriate usage.
Of course, data quality and privacy is one of the biggest concerns around the use of AI within healthcare. That’s because an organization like yours stores and manages a vast amount of personal data. This data can be a powerful analytical tool for senior living communities, but it can also make you more vulnerable to cyber attacks and AI risks. Your AI governance framework needs to include all policies and procedures around data protection and a plan for responding to security breaches.
Responsible AI isn’t just about how you use the technology — it’s also about how you communicate and document your usage. Human accountability is critical to AI governance practices. It is crucial that you document all the AI models used by your organization, and that the purpose is explained honestly and transparently to staff, residents, and family members
Speaking of staff, they may have their own concerns or mistrust of the AI technologies you’re using. Many people are worried that AI applications will compromise their jobs, change their responsibilities, or eliminate their role entirely. Ensure that all staff members are educated and trained on your AI policies and that their questions are answered authentically and sensitively. Ensure that they have adequate time for training, and that they fully understand how they can work with the AI technology to support the work and mission of your community.
AI and machine learning are becoming increasingly more valuable when it comes to regulatory compliance and reporting. Automation can create greater efficiency in your reporting and documentation processes, and it can reduce errors and ensure that the most accurate data is shared with governing organizations. While human oversight is always needed, leaning into AI development to make your organization more compliant will reduce your risk and improve business ethics.
Wondering how AI governance can make your senior living community more efficient, more ethical, and more effective at caring for residents? Here’s how:
- Improved transparency and authenticity in communications as a result of marketing automation
- Better resident outcomes thanks to ethical AI monitoring and usage of wearable technology
- Increased safety due to optimized staffing using AI workflows and datasets
- Reduction in incorrect data due to human error, creating more reliable information
- Cost savings and increased efficiency by empowering staff to focus on higher priorities while AI takes care of simple automated tasks
- Greater trust between residents, loved ones, and communities as ethical practices are honestly and clearly communicated
Wondering how you can create an AI governance framework for your senior living ecosystem? Here are the steps to get you started:
1. Risk Assessment: Audit the current AI-enabled tools your organization is already using and note any potential vulnerabilities. Create a plan to manage future AI risks when adopting new tools.
2. Data Protection: If you already have a data privacy policy, now is the time to update it. If you don’t, start building one that takes into account the way you handle the data of your residents and staff.
3. Educate and Inform: Ensure that all employees are trained in how to responsibly and ethically use your AI tools.
4. Seek Feedback: Ask staff and residents for their input on your community’s usage or artificial intelligence. Answer questions transparently and provide them with clarity on why and how you’re using automated tools.
5. Monitor and Update: Once you release your AI governance framework, make a point to check in regularly to ensure responsible and ethical usage of AI tools, or find and resolve any potentially compromised data before it becomes a problem.
One critical piece of responsible AI usage is choosing the best and most ethical tools that fit your needs. Eldermark NEXT and ElderSmarts are setting the benchmark for AI ethics and safety within the senior living space. Our end-to-end senior living software inputs 30+ years of data into AI models and machine learning to help predict and prevent negative occurrences. How are we helping you govern AI usage?
AI is here to stay, and while many of the seniors in your community may have concerns and questions, you can answer them honestly and authentically with support from Eldermark. We make sure our AI-enhanced tools meet the highest ethical standards, and that our programs align with your goals of providing the highest level of care to your residents.
We’re happy to talk you through how Eldermark NEXT and ElderSmarts can increase efficiency at your senior living community, and aid you in creating an AI governance framework that protects staff, residents, and family members. Want to see it in action? Schedule an introductory meeting today, or email us at sales@eldermark.com