Home is where the heart is, and almost 90 percent of adults age 65 or older would prefer growing old in their current home instead of uprooting and moving to an assisted-living facility. Given the smart-home technology readily available on the market today, the ability to “age in place” is becoming a more realistic option for many aging Americans. Not only does technology empower seniors to live independently longer, it is often a less expensive option than moving. And it can be less intimidating than people think.
Technology is made “smart” by connecting devices to a high-speed Internet connection. Cox has done a tour of “Connected Independence” homes across the country demonstrating how smart-home technology gives seniors the ability to live independently at home, while providing adult children peace of mind that their aging parent is safe.
The connections technology can also combat the feelings of isolation common in older adults, as it’s easier to connect with friends, family and caregivers without leaving the home.
“Smart-home technology gives many families additional choices when considering the wrenching decision to move an aging parent to a nursing facility and provides reassurance their loved one is safe,” said Kirsten McLaughlin, market vice president. “A connected home allows seniors to get the things they need in their daily routine while maintaining the quality of life at home.”
Just a few examples of what technology enables for seniors:
» Telehealth technology that allows patients to have live, personal interaction with doctors via video while at home. This technology relieves patients from travel to a medical facility for every consultation.
» Home automation and security features, including the ability to see who is at the front door and lock and unlock doors remotely through Cox Homelife, making it easier for seniors to let visitors and caregivers in and out of the home safely.
» A pill dispenser that provides audible and visual alerts up to 30 minutes when pills are scheduled to be taken.
» An automatic pet feeder that can be controlled through an app.
» A smart toothbrush that will report brushing habits and provide oral health advice through an app.
» A smart fork, which helps track eating habits.
» Smart kitchen appliances, which makes it easier to cook for one.
» A voice-activated TV remote, which gives users the ability to find their favorite shows without pressing buttons and navigating through on-screen menus.
» A voice-activated remote that controls lights and temperature.
» Amazon Dash buttons, which allows seniors to order products that will be delivered to their door at the push of a button.
A reliable high-speed Internet connection is critical for all of these potentially life-changing services to work properly. By connecting health-care providers, caregivers and families to innovative care services through the smart-home environment, families can prolong quality of life at home and lower health-care costs without sacrificing peace of mind.
— Charla Batey is a communications specialist for Cox Communications.