INFORMATION PORTAL OF THE MARSHAL'S OFFICE OF THE KUJAWSKO-POMORSKIE Region IN TORUŃ

A total of 87 municipal and local governments, along with Nicolaus Copernicus University, the Regional Emergency Medical Station, and the Inowrocław-based Ekspert-Kujawy Foundation, are partnering with the regional self-government to continue the home telecare program. This initiative is based on so-called “life bracelets” and neighborhood support. Currently, 2,000 people benefit from the program, with another 1,500 set to join soon. Later this year, some participants will also receive a telemedicine package designed to aid in the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases.

– We know that this type of assistance for seniors and others in need of support in daily life is both appropriate and highly anticipated. Home telecare provides a sense of security while helping maintain independence and functionality for longer, – emphasizes Marshal Piotr Całbecki.

The system is designed to support 3,500 individuals. Currently, 2,000 people – mostly seniors – wear our bracelets, which are mobile devices that monitor vital signs and enable emergency assistance calls when needed. An additional 1,500 people will receive them in the coming weeks. Over the past 14 months, the telecare center – managed by the Regional Social Policy Center and operated by paramedics from the Regional Emergency Medical Station – has received 6,500 calls for assistance through the system, with over 100 cases requiring emergency services intervention.

A key component of the program is neighborhood support, which includes grocery shopping, meal preparation, assistance in getting to the doctor and handling administrative matters, as well as activities like reading aloud, walks, conversations, and companionship. Currently, 360 people benefit from this support.

The telemedicine package is a new feature being developed for around 300 participants selected based on medical data gathered from the bracelets. These individuals are at an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia and Parkinson’s disease. In addition to continuous monitoring via wristbands (tracking heart rate, blood pressure, fall detection, step count, and location), participants will receive MRI scans, blood tests, medical interviews, and continuous analysis of their vital parameters by specialists. Additionally, nursing students – acting as volunteers – will provide care and support. This part of the program is managed by Nicolaus Copernicus University.

The Marshal’s regional home telecare program is currently funded through the regional program European Funds for Kujawy and Pomorze 2021-2027. The total cost is 33 million PLN, with 28 million PLN covered by EU funding.

Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson of the Marshal’s Office

March 10, 2025