Sengistix Technology Provides Supplemental Support to People with Disabilities

As technology advances, more people in need of supports are taking advantage of devices and applications that allow them to live more independently. This is the case for hundreds of people around the country using the services of Sengistix.

Based in Minnesota, Sengistix is a full-service, remote technology company. Its experts work with individuals and those closest to them to build systems that supplement the support they receive from Direct Support Professionals, family members and other caregivers.

At the core of the Sengistix services is an array of sensors capable of alerting caregivers to activity that could require a response. These sensors can detect changes in the environment, including open doors and windows, or motion in a hallway or kitchen. Supplemental smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as temperature and moisture sensors, can alert identified responders of environmental concerns. Bed and chair sensors can make staff aware of possible falls.

In addition, individuals served can be equipped with pendants and other wearable devices so they can push a button for help. For those unable to use a wearable, other technology is available. “We have some pretty cool adaptive things for individuals to call for help,” said John Kehr, Sengistix Operations Director. “For example, there’s a straw that you can blow or suck from and it will send an alert. We also have a pad that you can put on a bed, and with the touch of an elbow, it sends an alert.”

Sengistix sensor technology serves more than 400 customers around the country. The sensors assist direct care staff to be where they need to be when they need to be. Typical uses include when individuals transition from “awake” to “sleep” staff, or when sharing an awake, overnight DSP between two homes.

Sengistix can also install video cameras for security, monitoring, triaging sensor alerts, or for investigative review.

The type of equipment and number of devices installed depends on the unique circumstances and preferences of the individual being supported, whether they’re living in their own apartment, a family home or in a group setting.

“Everything we do is granular and dedicated to a person’s needs,” said Sengistix Operations Manager Greg Degel, adding that the goal is to only employ the technology absolutely needed to ensure safety and privacy. “It may be a sensor platform, or it could be a communication device where we can do video, if requested, like Facetime or a Zoom call. It could be as simple as a telephone, and they can just call us, and we have a camera that we can flip on if we need to.”

The company has a 24-hour Response Center in Minnesota serving approximately 22 sites around the country. John said that during the COVID-19 pandemic, it served more than 50 sites. Response Center Advocates are staff dedicated to monitoring customers during day and night shifts. They are able to assist with simple troubleshooting and to receive alerts related to our various systems of technology.

When a Response Center Advocate receives a sensor alert, depending on an individual’s service plan, they might check a camera to see if the person is OK, or they might need to call a DSP to respond. “And we know what to look for based on a care plan. We’ll know when we need to call the staff,” John said.

In cases of emergency, when a caregiver is not on site or cannot get to the home quickly, the Response Center can call local emergency services.

Because cameras are sometimes used to supplement DSPs and caregiver support, Greg has heard concerns about privacy. In response, he assures people that Sengistix is on their side. “We want to make our support as least intrusive as possible. We try to deliver simple solutions, where you don’t even realize it’s there. It’s just the invisible thing helping you out.”

If you or someone you know would like to learn how to receive support from Sengistix, please visit the Sengistix website or send email to management@sengistix.com.