Choosing a remote supports technology? Here are the top questions disability service providers need to ask.

Choosing a Remote Supports Technology: Top Questions Disability and Aging Service Providers Should Ask

As the landscape of aging and disability support evolves, technology has become an indispensable partner in helping individuals live safely, independently, and happily in the least restrictive environment possible. But with so many remote supports options on the market—especially new ventures sensing the market opportunity —it’s crucial for providers to pause and ask the right questions before selecting their technology partner(s).

Keep People at the Center of Care

In this industry, technology is only as good as its ability to enhance human connection and dignity. Every decision should be guided by one principle: keeping people at the center of care. Remote support technology should empower, not monitor; connect, not isolate.

Privacy and Security: Non-Negotiables

When choosing a platform, data privacy and security must come first. Medical readings, activity data, and personal communications are deeply sensitive. Technology giants like Nest, Amazon, or Google thrive on data ecosystems that fuel advertising and analytics. Providers should seek partners who treat data as sacred, not as a commodity. That’s where GrandCare stands apart—protecting both the dignity and the privacy of the individuals served.

Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Remote Supports Technology

1. How long have you been doing this?

Experience matters. With over 20 years of proven success, GrandCare has been trusted in homes, senior living communities, and disability support organizations nationwide. We have been doing it this long because we believe in people over profit. Longevity means stability, knowledge, and a track record of integrity.

2. What would your clients say about your customer service?

Ask for references. Listen to stories. The right technology partner is one that’s there when you need them—with real people who care. GrandCare’s entire team is known for its integrity, honesty, and passion for helping their clients succeed.

3. Is my data kept private—and do third parties have access?

Cameras, sensors and home assistants from large tech conglomerates may not be ensuring that all data is fully private and secure. GrandCare adheres to all HIPAA regulations with a closed and encrypted ecosystem to ensure client data is stored privately, safely and securely.

4. What online training resources are available?

A platform is only effective if people are properly using it. Ask about training tools, onsite onboarding programs, and ongoing support. GrandCare provides comprehensive, on-demand training and a responsive support desk every day including on-call weekend hours.

5. How do I get client buy-in?

Make sure there are benefits for the individual being supported. Socialization, connection and access to secure online entertainment is a human right that shouldn’t depend on ability. GrandCare puts the person at the center with a customized touchscreen complete with their favorite videos, music, photos and white listed, secure video chat and messaging access to designated individuals.

6. Who profits if your company does well (how are you funded)?

It’s important to understand whether the company’s primary goal is profit—or people. VC-backed organizations answer to venture share holders. Privately held organizations like GrandCare answer to the client with a focus on ethical service and long term sustainability.

7. Do you have APIs for integration?

Integration ensures that data and communication flow seamlessly across systems with one interactive dashboard. GrandCare’s robust APIs allow for interoperability with other care systems, ensuring smooth operations for providers and better outcomes for clients.

Activity monitoring and remote supports for individuals with disabilities

Why GrandCare Is the Right Choice for Remote Supports

When choosing a technology partner, remember: you’re not just selecting a technology company—you’re choosing the people behind it. Ethically, fiscally, and practically—GrandCare stands apart. For more than two decades, GrandCare has been trusted in homes of thousands of older adults and individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Want to learn more? Contact us for a demo.

TechACCESS of Rhode Island - A Program of Advocates

GrandCare Brings Remote Supports to Life at Rhode Island’s ATCNE Conference

If you’re attending the Assistive Technology Conference of New England (ATCNE) on November 20th, get ready for an inspiring day! From 10a – 3:45p, you’ll have the chance to explore the latest in assistive technology and meet some incredible innovators who are making a real difference in the transformation of care services.

We at GrandCare are excited to be part of the action! Stop by our booth to experience how our remote supports and person-centered enabling technology empower independence and connection.

Our GrandCare System is a simple, touchscreen-based hub that does so much more than you might expect. It helps people stay on top of daily routines with reminders, video check-ins, and telehealth tools. Care teams can monitor vitals, receive motion alerts, and even share video modeling for everyday tasks—all from an easy-to-use caregiver dashboard that works on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Come see GrandCare in action! Our team will be there to demo the technology, answer your questions about remote supports and funding, and of course, hand out some fun giveaways.

And don’t miss the educational breakout sessions happening throughout the day. We’re especially excited that GrandCare’s own Scott Feldstein will be sharing his insights during the midday sessions—you won’t want to miss it!

Tech-Enabled Caregiving with Remote Supports: The How, the Why and the ROI

November 20, 11:15am – 12:30pm

ATCNE session GrandCare 2025

About This Session

Although it is often associated with the military, the term “force multiplier” simply means something that allows a small group of people to do something that would ordinarily take a larger number of people to do. Smart home, sensors and touchscreen-based technologies can be YOUR force multiplier, allowing your organization to support more people without hiring more staff. AND your clients will enjoy a more self-directed, independent lifestyle.

This session will help your agency understand why it’s best for you to provide your OWN remote supports instead of outsourcing to a third party and how it can save your organization money while improving client care and independence.

About the Assistive Technology Conference of New England (ATCNE)

Since 1988, Rhode Island’s annual conference on assistive technology has offered state-of-the-art workshops, information, and exhibits highlighting technologies that change and enhance the lives of people with disabilities of all ages. Attended each year by hundreds of individuals, family members, and professionals from New England and beyond, the conference focuses on uses of technology in education, communication, employment, recreation, home, and independent living. Learn more at the TechACCESS of Rhode Island website.