An AARP survey “2020 TECH AND THE 50+” which came out in December 2019 offers some interesting insights into older adults’ increased usage and acceptance of technology and confirms a growing trend.
Adults aged 50 and older adopt and use smart technology on a daily basis at the same rate as consumers aged 18-49. (p.5). They are increasingly interested in Smart Home Safety Technology which provides convenience, safety and peace of mind. Consequently, in the last 2 years, the adoption of Smart Home Technology by older adults has more than doubled from 7% to 19%. (p.32)
Of particular interest for StackCare @home is the older adults’ high level of interest in purchasing systems that will monitor their wellbeing. 42% are interested in purchasing “A system that lets a family member know if you are okay, or if your daily routine changes suggesting you might need help”. In addition, 39% of older adults are interested in purchasing “Sensors placed throughout your home to detect if someone falls and if so, calls for emergency help”. (p.35)
StackCare @home fulfills these requirements: motion sensor technology and data science algorithms constantly search for anomalies and occurrences or events and when something is spotted (this is where Artificial Intelligence “understands” that there may be a problem) the notification platform issues a notification back to the family or the caregiver.
The current pandemic is likely to lead to a further increase in these percentages as more and more people will want to continue living in their own home as they get older. Seniors themselves (not just their families and caregivers) want the reassurance to know that someone will be notified and come to help them if they have a problem without them having to actively make a call or push a button.
In conclusion, we can see a growing interest in home monitoring systems which facilitate aging in place safely. A discrete motion sensor system is a great solution to maintain the seniors’ independence and give peace of mind to their families.
Nathalie de Vazeille
Sales & Marketing Manager - StackCare
Citations from: Nelson Kakulla. Brittne. 2020 Tech Trends of the 50+. Washington, DC: AARP Research, January 2020. https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/technology/info-2019/2020-technology-trends-older-americans.html