As more Americans retire and live well past 65, finding ways to pursue an active, independent lifestyle becomes a priority, not only for older adults, but for their families and caretakers, too. Technology now plays a major role in most households  even if it’s just a smart TV or a wearable device. While younger adults tend to spend more time online than seniors, the number of seniors over 65 who are using technology has increased the most over the last decade.¹

Future trends promise to bring even more freedom and efficiency for seniors and healthcare providers through new technologies, especially fueled by fast-moving AI discoveries.

So, what does the future hold? Here’s what we’ve found is on the horizon for senior living technology and three future trends to watch.

Living alone at any age brings unique joys and challenges. For seniors living alone, however, staying safe and connected becomes a greater priority. With more older adults choosing to age in place, healthcare providers and companies have focused on devices and equipment that can reach across miles to create connections.

Automated technologies like Amazon Echo, Alexa, Siri, and more continue to gain in popularity, empowering seniors with greater accessibility. Older adults who use this technology can spend less time and energy managing basic tasks like turning on lights or checking the weather. 

Home care technology has far-reaching capabilities for seniors and doctors, allowing both to schedule virtual visits, sync calendars, and manage medicines all from home. Seniors with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease can track vital signs in real time, alerting caregivers and providers of any emergencies or problems.

Seniors who have mobility issues or who are working to regain strength may be at greater risk for falls or injury. Wearable technology has brought a whole new level of independence and connectivity for seniors. Devices can be worn around your neck or wrist and can be worn at home or on the go. All have different features, so be sure to explore which features meet your needs most. Fitness trackers and smart watches can help seniors track everything from vital signs to sleep and activity.²

In cases where seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia may be at risk for wandering, smart technologies like GPS can help caregivers manage movements and locations. Tracking devices, chips, and even smart phones help ensure greater safety for seniors.³

In some cases, caregivers or family may find it necessary to observe a senior relative who has chosen to age in place. If an older adult is prone to wander or a caregiver lives too far away, elder care technology like a camera can enhance safety and peace of mind for loved ones. 

Elder care technology is changing the face of healthcare by creating more individualized and personal experiences between patients and doctors. With the advent of value-based care models, providers are creating more patient-centered approaches, that not only focus on physical health, but a senior’s entire lifestyle. Technology is building more personalized healthcare by creating more accessibility and choices.

Telehealth appointments, or virtual visits, give seniors the choice to see a doctor without ever leaving the house, breaking down mobility and geographic barriers.

More than 77% of adults aged 50 to 80 prefer to continue living at home as they age. To make that a reality, many homes need some technology to support the increased needs of the senior residents. According to CB Insights, the smart device home market across the globe is predicted to reach $165 billion by 2025.⁴

Smart home technology covers nearly every aspect of a working home, including the central heating and air conditioning systems, thermostats, window coverings, lighting, security systems, and entertainment. Senior adults are using more and more technology, gaining confidence to explore new ways of creating a home fit for years to come.

Current and future smart home technology trends may grow in several key areas:

• Smart thermostats
• Lighting
• Security
• Remote monitoring
• Accessibility
• Voice-activated devices

AI will continue to push growth behind smart home technology. AI for seniors living at home promises to open more doors to better health and living. Here’s a recap of where AI is working behind the scenes.

• Smart home options that control lights, security and more
• Voice-activated technologies and personal assistants
• Medication reminders
• Health status and symptom trackers
• Virtual health visits
• Robotics to automate common tasks⁵

Whatever the mix of home technology, the priority is to create environments where seniors can remain independent and safe while enjoying daily living activities. Smart phones and tablets make it convenient for older adults to manage AI tasks, stay connected, and find entertainment.

Knowing about the latest senior care technology trends gives older adults and families better insight and ways to solve problems around aging. As AI technology advances, healthcare providers, doctors, organizations, and patients will have more opportunities to connect far beyond the doctor’s office or hospital.

Sources:

1. Faverio, Michelle. “Share of Those 65 and Older Who Are Tech Users Has Grown in the Past Decade.” Pew Research Center, 13 Jan. 2022, https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/01/13/share-of-those-65-and-older-who-are-tech-users-has-grown-in-the-past-decade/.
2. “Technology for Seniors.” SeniorLiving.org, https://www.seniorliving.org/tech/.
3. “Elderly Care Technology in Home Health Care: Key Trends Shaping 2025.” Mindbowser Healthcare Blog, https://healthcare.mindbowser.com/elderly-care-technology-in-home-health-care/.
4. “Smart Home Technology for Older Adults.” AgeTech Collaborative, https://agetechcollaborative.org/insights/smart-home-tech-for-older-adults/.
5. Bursack, Carol Brady. “6 Tech Tools I Wish I’d Had When I Was a Caregiver.” AgingCare, https://www.agingcare.com/articles/top-eldercare-technologies-chosen-by-a-former-caregiver-166944.htm.