Caring for the Elderly Without Borders: The Strategic Role of On-Demand Health Workers in Hypertension Management

Hypertension is one of the most common chronic diseases experienced by the elderly. Stable blood pressure management requires regular monitoring, education, and consistent lifestyle adjustments. However, the elderly who live in vertical apartments often face mobility barriers, limited access to health facilities, and social isolation that can worsen their condition. In this context, the presence of on-demand health workers is an adaptive solution that can reach patients directly at their homes. 

On-demand health workers are professional medical personnel—such as nurses, doctors, or community health workers—who can be accessed through an application or digital platform to make scheduled or on-demand home visits. For elderly residents of vertical apartments, this service provides convenience without having to go down the stairs or use an elevator which may not always be comfortable or safe. 

This service includes regular blood pressure monitoring, reminders and supervision of taking medication, nutrition education, and light consultations regarding complaints felt. In some cases, health workers also help record the patient's health development digitally, which can then be monitored by doctors remotely (telemonitoring).

The presence of on-demand health workers not only has medical impacts, but also provides social and psychological benefits. Regular direct interaction provides a sense of security and reduces the loneliness that is often experienced by the elderly. This is very important, because social isolation and emotional stress can trigger spikes in blood pressure. 

In addition, health workers can also be a liaison between the elderly and the nearest health care facility if further action is needed. Important information such as changes in symptoms, side effects of drugs, or new complaints can be followed up immediately before they become serious problems. 

Challenges remain, such as the limited availability of professional staff, service costs, and technological readiness in the elderly group. Therefore, collaboration is needed between apartment managers, local governments, and digital health service providers to ensure that this program can be accessed evenly and sustainably. 

Overall, the role of on-demand health workers is very strategic in monitoring hypertension in the elderly living in vertical apartments. With a flexible, personal, and patient-oriented approach, this service is able to bridge physical and logistical limitations towards better and more sustainable health management.