In a rapidly technologically developing world, where every device is now connected and information can be accessed instantly from almost anywhere, the prospects for improving safety and security for the elderly have significantly widened. Smart safety, a concept that is an amalgamation of advanced technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), AI, and machine learning, has opened up a realm of possibilities when it comes to safeguarding the elderly, particularly those living alone.
With devices that range from wearables such as smartwatches and bands to home appliances like security cameras and alarms, the elderly can be protected and monitored without compromising their independence or privacy. These devices not only reduce the risks associated with aging, including slip-and-fall accidents, medical emergencies, or bouts of forgetfulness, but also provide timely alerts and assistance, ensuring the elderly continue to live with peace of mind and dignity.
SMART WEARABLE DEVICES
Wearable devices imbued with smart safety features are becoming increasingly popular for the protection of the elderly. These devices cater to several needs, including health monitoring, fall detection, medication reminders, and even emergency call functions.
Consider the Apple Watch Series 4 and newer versions, which come equipped with a fall detection feature. Integrated with an advanced accelerometer and gyroscope, these devices can detect when the wearer has taken a hard fall. If the watch senses immobility for approximately a minute following the fall, it automatically sends a call to emergency services with your location details.
Similarly, medical alert systems such as the Life Alert have wearable pendants or watches designed to immediately alert a 24/7 response center in case of emergencies. Other device manufacturers like Fitbit provide wearables that track health metrics like heart rate, sleep stages, and physical activity levels. The latest Fitbit Versa model, in fact, also has a SpO2 sensor that can detect changes in oxygen levels, potentially identifying health problems like sleep apnea.
SMART HOME DEVICES
The home environment plays a significant role in ensuring the safety of the elderly. Smart home devices have simplified the task of monitoring potential risks in an elderly person’s house, including security threats, fire hazards, and healthcare emergencies.
A foremost example is Nest Protect, a smart smoke and carbon monoxide alarm that sends alerts to your phone if there’s a problem, including where the issue is and whether you need to take immediate action. Similarly, smart locks such as August Smart Lock Pro automatically lock your doors when you leave, and unlock them as you arrive, ensuring enhanced security.
In ensuring personal safety, personal home assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home have also emerged as useful tools. These devices can be used by the elderly to make emergency calls, set reminders for medication, or control essential connected home devices, all through voice commands. The ‘Ask My Buddy’ skill enables Amazon Alexa users to send a call for help to a specific contact simply by speaking to the device.
REMOTE MONITORING
Remote monitoring has been a game-changer, allowing family members or caregivers to keep a vigilant eye on elderly individuals from afar. Cameras integrated with artificial intelligence, like the Google Nest Cam IQ, can stream high-quality video to your phone. These AI-enhanced security cameras can identify when an unknown person is in the house, even alerting you if they detect suspicious motion or sounds.
Several health-related sensing devices allow remote monitoring as well. The Wellnest system includes a home hub, a wearable pendant, and pill bottle sensors, tracking medication and activity, sending alerts to connected family members or caregivers if normal routines are not followed.
AI AND DATA ANALYTICS
When combined with AI and data analytics, these devices can not only monitor but also predict potential health issues. Sensor-laden mats, such as the one developed by Emerald, use AI to analyze changes in walking speed or stride length, predicting the likelihood of a fall even before it happens.
Software platforms that gather data from various devices and health systems can analyze the information through AI to create predictive models. Applications such as IBM Care could analyze how changes in medication affect an elder’s behavior, providing actionable insights to caregivers or family members.
As we move forward into an increasingly interconnected digital age, the importance and reliance on smart safety in elderly care are bound to grow. While these technologies present solutions that ensure enhanced protection for the elderly, they also offer an opportunity for training and educating the elderly population about their benefits and use.
However, it’s essential to make these devices as user-friendly as possible, considering that the elderly may not be as technologically savvy as the younger generation. Additionally, the cost of these devices and ensuring internet connectivity, particularly for those in rural areas or with financial constraints, need to be taken into account.
Ultimately, the integration of smart devices into an elderly person’s life can result in a significant improvement in their safety, providing them with more comfort, dignified independence, and equally important, peace of mind for their loved ones.
