TRENDING NOW: Robots, AI & Other Futuristic Technology Find a Home in Senior Living

Technology to improve the lives of older adults is everywhere, including some game-changing breakthroughs on the horizon for senior living residences, both in the structure of their buildings and in approaches to residents’ well-being. Various systems are being piloted at Knollwood, a Life Plan Community for retired service members in Washington , DC, according to a recent blog in McKnight’s Senior Living. A hub for future technological innovation, Knollwood has partnered with universities to conduct studies on how to continue advancing technologies that could improve the quality of life for residents.

As a result, residents have access to a wearable robotic suit that could help correct walking patterns, or enhance physical strength. Robots could be used to help older adults on an emotional level as well as perform a variety of tasks, including keeping people occupied, or adhering to their medication schedule. Other valuable technologies are smart lighting systems, which help older adults by preventing falls—a major challenge for the industry. The artificial intelligence, using innovative sensors embedded in this system would detect, monitor, and analyze patterns of movement, and in case of a fall, an alert would be sent to staff for assistance.

Senior living providers that want to adopt similar technology to improve staff efficiency, boost resident well-being, and protect residents’ health and safety would do well to keep an eye on the outcomes from the technology pilots happening now at Knollwood.

 

Want to keep up with recent research that’s relevant to aging services? Use the form below to subscribe to our monthly InvestigAge email.

 

Source:

Bricker P. “Combining the human touch with technology to improve quality of life.” McKnight’s Senior Living guest blog. https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/home/columns/guest-columns/combining-the-human-touch-with-technology-to-improve-quality-of-life/July 13, 2020. Accessed July 28, 2020.

Self-Fulfilling ProphecyHow Perceptions of Aging Affect Our Later Years

Learn how older adults’ perceptions of aging—and their self-perceptions—can have serious effects on their health, behaviors, and even longevity.

Download FREE Copy
twitterlinkedinFacebookmail

    Add insight to your inbox

    Join our email list to receive information about the latest research from Mather Institute. Just complete the form below to subscribe.

    Thank you!

    You are now subscribed to the email list.
    A confirmation has been sent to the email you provided.

    Continue to Website Share with a Friend
    Close