Mehariw Gelagay is a visionary entrepreneur based in Portland, Oregon, and CEO of Mehari Properties, a brokerage and rental firm managing single-family homes and multi-unit residences with a rigorous focus on maintenance and client care. He also serves as the executive director of RoyalCare Inc., a 24-hour residential facility for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, where he ensures legal compliance and compassionate, high-quality services. Licensed in both Oregon and Washington through Oregon First Realtors and Washington First Properties, Mehariw brings cross-state expertise to clients while blending his passions for technology and historical studies to drive innovation. His combined leadership in real estate and healthcare operations gives him a credible, hands-on perspective on how technology can elevate residential care.
Operating a residential care facility requires constant attention, coordination, and balancing regulatory compliance and compassionate care. For decades, staff relied on manual processes, including paper charts, phone calls, and in-person updates. While the human element will always remain central, technology is transforming operations—making facilities more efficient, safer, and ultimately better places for residents.
One of the most significant changes is the shift to electronic health records (EHRs). Instead of managing stacks of paper charts, staff can instantly access and update resident information using tablets or computers. Caregivers can review medication schedules or dietary restrictions without leaving the room, while doctors and nurses collaborate more efficiently through real-time updates. This reduces errors, strengthens communication, and ensures more consistent care. These behind-the-scenes improvements translate into fewer delays and more personalized attention for residents.
Technology has also improved how staff communicate with one another. Many facilities now use secure messaging systems or mobile apps to stay connected during shifts. If a resident needs assistance, the right staff member receives an immediate alert rather than relying on a series of phone calls. This not only speeds up response times but also helps distribute workload more evenly, which can ease staff stress and burnout. More transparent communication also builds trust within teams, reducing misunderstandings and fostering a culture of accountability.
Beyond communication and records, technology has introduced new tools for safety and monitoring. For example, motion sensors and wearable devices can alert staff if a resident has fallen or is trying to leave the building without supervision. Smart cameras, used responsibly, can provide extra oversight in common areas, helping ensure safety without replacing human supervision. These tools are especially valuable in facilities caring for residents with dementia or mobility issues, where minor accidents can quickly escalate into emergencies.
Technology also enhances residents’ daily quality of life. Video calling platforms allow them to stay connected with distant loved ones, while tablets, streaming services, and even virtual reality experiences help combat loneliness and stimulate mental engagement. When thoughtfully applied, these tools foster independence, connection, and joy—as vital as meeting medical or physical needs. For many residents, these small moments of connection can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, a common challenge in long-term care.
Of course, adopting new systems doesn’t happen overnight. Staff need training, and facilities will incur costs to upgrade equipment and software. Not every facility has the same resources, and technology should never replace caregivers’ warmth and empathy. Still, these tools enhance rather than eliminate human touch when implemented with care. They free up time that staff would otherwise spend on paperwork or chasing down information, giving caregivers more space to focus on the people they serve. Facilities that invest in training and gradual implementation often see the smoothest transitions, with staff gaining confidence as they integrate new tools into daily routines.
The goal of technology in residential care is not just to optimize or increase efficiency. Instead, it helps create an environment where residents feel safer, staff feel supported, and families feel reassured. By blending compassion with innovation, care facilities can provide a space where individuals truly feel cared for.