Top Aging in Place Technologies for the Home
In a survey from Home Instead, a provider of senior in-home care services, 94 percent of older adults said they plan to age in their own home, even as health needs change.
As more older adults choose to age in place, technology advancements—some of which provide day-to-day assistance while others help monitor health—are becoming key tools in a home care plan.
It’s essential to find the right balance between tools to help older adults feel empowered and connected, and the personal, hands-on professional support from a caregiver.
“Technology is a very beneficial tool, especially when paired with the helping hand of a family member or professional caregiver,” said Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead. “This personal support and companionship can mean all the difference in being able to choose where you want to live as you grow older.”
Although some technology can be intimidating for older adults, a 2021 survey showed that seniors in particular are learning to embrace technology more than ever before. According to the survey, one in four seniors said they felt more comfortable using new technology than they did just one year ago.
While many increased their use of technology to stay connected with loved ones, 30 percent stated they will continue using technology to help them with care in the home.
Striking a balance between high-tech solutions and human interaction will be key to advancing the future of care.
Top Aging-in-Place Technologies
Here are 9 technologies that can be incorporated into older adults’ lives and make it easier to age in place and remain at home.
1. Video Doorbell: This smart technology from Ring, and other providers, hooks into existing doorbells that enable a homeowner to see who comes to the door via the phone.
2. Voice and Remote Thermostat: This tool (Google Nest, Amazon Smart Thermostat, and others) helps monitor thermostat functions including furnace and air conditioning by voice or by cell phone.
3. Virtual Assistant: Amazon’s Echo or Google Home allows homeowners to control their home with their voice – locking doors, turning lights on and off, adjusting the thermostat or viewing camera feeds
4. Stove Fire Prevention Devices: These devices automatically shut off a stove if it is left unattended for a specific time. Devices like this are especially helpful for older adults living with dementia.
See the entire list on Home Instead
