The Future of Data: Iot-Connected Smart Homes for an Aging Population

A few short decades ago, Americans assumed that the last years of their lives would be spent in a nursing facility or other senior living environment. Today, more seniors plan to age in place, which means that they plan to live in their own homes as long as they are able. Aging in place requires various types of support, including home care services, family support, and technology.

Being connected to the internet equates to independence for many older adults. They may use wearable technology to monitor chronic conditions or use devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) that enables them to communicate with others.

Some seniors embrace the idea of smart homes so that they can live as independently as possible during their later years. Not only can this be a win for seniors, but their loved ones can rest easy with the knowledge that they live in a safe environment. As more baby boomers retire and need increased help around the house IoT-connected devices may be the answer to the senior care dilemma of the future. Before we dive into a few of these devices, let’s explore the extent of IoT devices in use today.

The Future of OoT and Health

Being connected to devices may seem like a futuristic idea, but it is a reality for many seniors with health concerns. In general, MISUMI defines the Internet of Things (IoT) as such: “IoT is the tag that’s been stamped on a variety of everyday objects from bicycles to industrial HVAC systems, with which the widespread proliferation of the Internet has enabled to become connected via integrated circuits, sensors, and network connectivity.†These everyday objects connected to the Internet provide numerous different services for a multitude of people, allowing for an exchange of data that can increase quality of life, monitor someone’s health, and even surveil a person’s safety.

The future of IoT devices is endless. For example, in the healthcare field, as more technology is developed, more conditions can be monitored, and some even controlled remotely by the individual’s care team. Visits with specialists might be possible via video, and even laboratory and other diagnostic tests may be performed through technological advancements instead of visits and invasive procedures. Because of these possibilities, IoT-connected devices can fundamentally improve the overall quality of life experienced by seniors who live at home.

IoT Devices for Health

Mobile health devices have been increasing in popularity over the past few years. Going digital can help patients who, for example, live with chronic illnesses and want to engage in self-care activities with the oversight of providers, which is already somewhat common among younger populations. When mobile health devices first came out, many providers discounted the senior population as likely users —  however, as older adults embraced the use of technology, more advancements were created. Here are a few of the IoT-connected devices that seniors can use at home.

Wearables

Wearing watches that count your steps or measure your heart rate was only the beginning of connectivity and health. Those living with diabetes can track blood sugar levels and even receive their insulin through wearable devices. Seniors recovering from cancer and other long-term conditions can log symptoms, activities, and medications into wearables and apps to communicate with their physicians. Many wearables even provide data to doctors and caregivers that can improve disease management not just for the patient wearing the device, but for many.

Smart Pillboxes

Taking daily medications is a reality for many seniors. Smart pillboxes can remind them that it’s time to take pills, which ones are due, and how many they need. These devices alert them of the need to take medications with lights, sounds, or both, making it an excellent solution even for seniors with visual or hearing deficits. Smart pillboxes can assess compliance with medication regimens as well. Recent models even have video devices inside so that administration can be recorded.

Sensor-Embedded Clothing

Mobility often decreases as you age. Because of this, many older adults need someone nearby to monitor for falls and other safety concerns, and clothing embedded with sensors can provide this required oversight without limiting independence or being too overbearing. Belts, socks, and shoes can measure activity, detect unsteady gaits, and prevent falls. Some types of garments can even alert family members or the care team of changes that may indicate an unsafe situation has occurred.

Smart Home Devices

Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home can do more than just key-up your latest playlist. Seniors are using these devices to remind them it’s time to exercise, take medications, or obtain important assessments like a blood pressure reading or blood sugar level. They can also use these devices to notify emergency personnel of falls or to research essential information about a chronic condition or new symptoms.

Looking Ahead to the Future

The number of older adults is estimated to increase over the upcoming years as Baby Boomers age and retire. For a generation known for its independence, work ethic, and determination, their desire to age where they want will likely be another part of life that they feel empowered to control. With advancements of the IoT-connected smart home, this future isn’t too far out of reach. Keep an eye out for more connectivity that can make aging in place easier.