Smart home technology has transformed how we live by making homes more efficient, accessible, and secure. These attributes especially benefit the elderly who wish to age in place. For them, smart home technology enhances daily life and supports independent living by improving safety and security, encouraging better communication and engagement, and fostering better health and wellness.
Safety and Security
Safety is a key concern for older adults living independently, and smart home technology offers effective security solutions. Devices like smart doorbells, locks, and cameras provide remote monitoring and control, enhancing convenience and peace of mind. Recent surveys from AgeTech Collaborative showed that 23% of older adults are interested in using smart technology for home security.
Many devices, such as fall detection sensors and smart assistants, are designed to provide additional security and support by issuing emergency alerts and notifying caregivers or family members.
Communication and Engagement
Maintaining contact with family and friends is vitally important for the emotional well-being and quality of life of older adults. Technology, like video calls and virtual communication, helps bridge these gaps, fostering a sense of belonging. Smart home devices integrated with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enable hands-free calls and messages. These studies show that this technology has been a game-changer in helping older adults stay socially connected.
Research shows that staying engaged through technology positively impacts mental health by providing a sense of purpose and stimulating cognitive thinking. However, to support their interests, it is essential to design technologies with relevant and user-friendly features according to their individual needs.
Health and Wellness
Maintaining health and wellness is critically important for the elderly, and smart home technology works to support this. Adding smart thermostats, light sensors, activity trackers, and air quality monitors enhances environmental conditions, adjusts settings based on real-time data, and allows air quality monitoring.
Incorporating these technologies can create a safer and more stable living environment, making aging in place more feasible and enjoyable. These advances benefit older adults by improving safety, encouraging social interaction, and enhancing overall well-being, addressing both functional and emotional needs. As technology evolves, it has the potential to further enrich the lives of the elderly.
Putting it All Together
Want to build a smarter home that helps your loved ones live home longer? HomeSeer makes it easy. Our HomeTroller hubs are easy to set up and work nicely with thousands of smart home devices and services. Browse our smart home shop for ideas and contact us directly for answers to your questions.
