AARP Report Shows High Interest, Flat Adoption of Smart Home Tech
AARP’s “2024 Tech Trends and Adults 50+” report revealed the latest insights regarding technology use with older Americans, including the latest trends in smart home technology use.
Between one-third and one-half of older adults are either using or interested in smart home devices, depending on the technology. However, smart home device adoption among older adults has remained relatively flat over the last five years despite high awareness and high interest in aging-in-place.
Devices with tangible “right now” benefits top the list of smart home devices used. The Top 5 categories of smart home products used are:
- Security – interconnected devices that monitor home safety
- Extenders – devices that extend the reach of Wi-Fi signal
- Lighting – smart home lighting systems that allow for automation or remote lighting control
- Appliances – Wi-Fi-connected appliances that can be operated remotely
- Utility – smart devices that manage energy and water utility usage
So why is adoption flat? According to the report, lack of need is the top reason many are not interested in smart home technology. Other reasons listed include: too expensive, too complicated and lack of trust or privacy concerns.
Also of note, the report revealed most say it is important that old and new tech work seamlessly together; only half of those surveyed for AARP’s report say the technology in their homes do so consistently. While this referred to all tech in the home, interconnectedness is especially key when it comes to smart home functionality.
Download the full report here.
