The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for quality nursing home care. While 25% of coronavirus deaths come from nursing homes, the quality of the nursing home affects results: 4- to 5-star nursing homes had 94% lower risk than their 1-star peers. When the pandemic is over, those disparities will remain. As the population of America ages, nursing homes will house more people than ever in the coming years.

Advances in medical technology are improving the quality of nursing home care across the board. Some innovations can even help seniors regain their independence and return home. Current tech includes Solo-Step, a rehabilitation harness that prevents fall-related injuries and lets users move about more freely. Coming in the future is The Kidney Project, an artificial kidney that would remove the need for dialysis. These products give aging people a brighter future.

Infographic courtesy The Wayne Center