Case 6: How eBrief Positively Impacts IDD Individuals
Incontinence is often associated with aging, but it’s not a natural part of growing older—it’s often a complication stemming from health issues, physical changes, or life experiences. However, many people overlook the fact that some individuals face these challenges from birth. For those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), the effects of incontinence can be especially profound, shaping their lives in ways that extend far beyond their years. IDD refers to conditions—whether present from birth, acquired through injury, or influenced by environmental factors—that impact intellectual functioning, behavior, and overall development. These conditions are lifelong and often pose significant barriers to daily life.
Research shows that individuals with IDD may struggle with self-care, age-appropriate tasks, independence, and self-confidence. Each person’s experience with IDD is unique, requiring tailored support and services to help them live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Interestingly, many of the care needs for individuals with IDD mirror those of older adults—especially when it comes to incontinence. Studies reveal that 52% of people with IDD experience incontinence, a condition that can lead to complications like skin irritation, infections, and reduced quality of life. While the way an older adult manages incontinence might differ from how a younger person with IDD does, the challenges remain the same. This underscores the importance of developing inclusive solutions that address the needs of all individuals, regardless of age or ability.
A recent study highlighted that 22% of Americans with IDD report conditions that limit their ability to manage toileting independently, increasing their risk of adverse events. Proper management of incontinence is critical to preventing these complications. Recognizing this need, eBrief has developed innovative assistive technology (AT) designed to support the IDD community. By providing real-time data and documentation, eBrief empowers care teams to make informed decisions that enhance the well-being of this vulnerable population.
Assistive technology (AT) plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals with IDD. Defined as tools or devices that help individuals meet their care goals, AT promotes independence, improves health and well-being, enhances socialization, delays institutionalization, and reduces healthcare costs. Historically, AT for the IDD population has included tools like screen readers, braille displays, and speech recognition software. However, as technology evolves, so must AT to continue delivering value and improving quality of life.
In a groundbreaking move, eBrief recently partnered with Black Hills Works in South Dakota to introduce its novel AT solution for individuals with IDD and incontinence in residential communities. This initiative is still in its early stages but represents a significant step forward in caregiving for this population. By leveraging eBrief’s technology, caregivers can better manage incontinence and improve the quality of life for those they support.
Black Hills Works aptly captures the spirit of this progress: “As a nation, we have emerged from the dark shadows of our early history when institutionalization was the norm to a place where we now know what is possible when we believe in the potential of people and shed misconceptions about limitations.”
Currently, eBrief is recognized and reimbursed as AT in South Dakota’s Medicaid Waiver program. If you’re interested in learning how eBrief can transform care for individuals with IDD and incontinence, we’d be happy to discuss your needs and explore how this innovative technology can make a difference. Contact us today to take the next step in revolutionizing care for those who need it most.
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About etectRx:
etectRx is a leading digital health sensor platform company offering a unique combination of wireless sensor technology, intelligent software, and services through our novel eBurst technology. This technology supports remote monitoring of multiple health conditions, enhancing patient engagement and healthcare outcomes across stakeholders, including patients, providers, and payers, by promoting accountability and awareness.