Connected technologies such as security cameras and notification systems can go a long way in providing a safer and more convenient living experience for seniors who want to live independently.
The elderly population in the United States is expected to experience significant growth, rising from 52 million in 2018 to approximately 95 million by 2060, according to the Population Reference Bureau. This demographic shift has the potential to lead to significant staffing and housing shortages in senior living facilities. Technology has the ability to help address these challenges and enable aging adults to live independently for as long as possible, and at the heart of this is safe, non-intrusive monitoring mixed with real-time alerts and notifications. Additionally, the adoption of smart devices can help ensure accessibility and comfort while maintaining care for this rapidly growing demographic.
At Josh.ai, we see a future where the connected environment will significantly improve the lives of people in older situations by addressing three key areas:
- Health and good physical and mental condition
- Comfort and safety
- Engaging and entertaining
Health and well-being
Medication management
Smart home technology has the power to be a valuable tool for consumers who rely on strict treatment regimens to manage their health conditions. Proactive voice messages can provide easy access to medication schedules, allowing seniors to manage their own care. For example, an adult or caregiver can set medication reminders with Josh.ai like, “Hey Josh, set a reminder every day at 9am to take my lisinopril.” This simple reminder from an assistant can help delay the need for full-time care, especially for those with memory loss or cognitive impairment.
Sleep regulation
Adequate rest is critical to maintaining the overall health and well-being of all people, especially the elderly. Sleep plays a key role in allowing the body to recharge and repair itself, counteracting the negative effects of daily stressors. Smart home technology can be used to create a sleep-friendly living environment for seniors by dimming lights, adjusting temperature, and masking outside noise. Controlling environmental devices combined with motion sensors to monitor how often someone gets up in the middle of the night provides caregivers and family members with a way to ensure that loved ones’ living patterns remain balanced.
Comfort and safety
Motion optimization
Implementing smart home technology such as voice assistants and motion sensors can help encourage and track movement, respectively. By setting reminders to get up and go out for a walk and receiving motion notifications, caregivers in senior living facilities can keep an eye on seniors without being intrusive. In addition, sensor technology can help identify potential hazards or emergencies, allowing for rapid medical response if needed.
Remote monitoring
Installing monitoring solutions and remote monitoring sensors not only provides seniors with a sense of independence, but also offers peace of mind for anyone investing in their well-being. Research shows that remote monitoring technology can improve the quality of life of older adults, especially those with chronic illnesses. For example, a study by the University of New Brunswick School of Nursing found that the use of remote monitoring systems allowed seniors to live at home longer and provided caregivers with relief. These solutions also allow family members to check on their loved ones and make sure they are safe, which can alleviate feelings of guilt or anxiety.
Engaging and entertaining
Socialization
Voice assistants have the potential to significantly reduce social isolation among seniors in senior living facilities by allowing easy access to television, music and even another being in the room to interact with. Adults can easily navigate through various entertainment options without having to learn how to operate complex remotes or other manual interfaces, thanks to Josh.ai’s contextual voice control. Additionally, proactive messages scheduled throughout the day have the power to reduce the risk of self-isolation and depression.
A gentle nudge from a voice assistant like, “Do you want to call a friend?” or “It’s almost 4pm, are you joining the community happy hour?” can help remind adults to socialize with others or go out to enjoy social activities.
As the elderly population in the United States continues to grow, it is increasingly important to address the need for solutions that improve their quality of life. One way to do this is by implementing technology-based solutions that address the unique needs and challenges faced by this demographic, while providing senior living caregivers with tools to monitor their well-being. Smart home technology and voice control have the potential to greatly improve the lives of those who need assistance but desire independence.
Sources
Mather, Mark, and others. “Fact Sheet: Aging in the United States.” PRBhttps://www.prb.org/resources/fact-sheet-aging-in-the-united-states/.
Read, Emily A et al. “Stakeholders’ perspectives on home-based passive remote monitoring to support aging in place in the province of New Brunswick, Canada: A rapid qualitative investigation.” JMIR aging vol. 5.2 e31486. May 11. 2022, doi: 10.2196/31486
Max Fiore is a Marketing Communications Associate for Josh.AI.
Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister site CE Pro on January 25, 2023. It has since been updated for SSI audiences.