New Technologies to Keep Seniors Safer, Healthier

Many tech reporters on the scene at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show noted that among the usual displays of the latest, hottest gadgets, senior-focused innovations were prominently showcased.

In development: Microsoft's innovative SenseCam, a memory support aid for people who have Alzheimer's disease. The SenseCam automatically takes a constant stream of photos, allowing the user to review an "instant replay" of the day's past events. This is just one of the many innovative new technologies on the horizon to support our ageing population. ___________________

In the last few issues of Choices, we've taken a look at ways seniors benefit from computer use and social applications. But enhanced online communication is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the potential of new technologies to improve the quality of life of older adults. We'd like to share with you some of the upcoming technical trends that we have been following—technologies that promise to support senior home health caregivers and the seniors and families they serve.

Here are just a few examples of computer-driven senior support offerings on the horizon. Some are still on the drawing board, while others are being tested and used today.

Technology to keep seniors safe at home

Today, many seniors take advantage of home security systems, personal emergency response systems or wander guards for those with Alzheimer's disease. But this is only the beginning. Some of the other developments we can look forward to help us "age in place" include enhanced home safety monitoring, and even sensors in seniors' clothing or shoes to detect a change of condition. Interactive "telehealth" products will allow seniors and caregivers to perform routine health monitoring at home, automatically transmitting the results to the senior's healthcare provider.

Online health records

Online personal health records promise to streamline healthcare and to allow patients more control over their own care. Older adults especially stand to benefit by a centralization of their records, as they are most likely to be dealing with multiple conditions, doctors and medications. Equally important to many consumers, new security technologies are addressing the important issue of privacy.

Senior fitness innovations

Few game developers anticipated how quickly older adults would embrace motion sensing video games, such as the popular Wii system. Do "virtual" sports games really give older adults a good workout? A recent study from the Heart and Stroke Foundation says yes, demonstrating that many active video games provide benefits equal to moderate intensity exercise. Another study suggested that active games such as "Dance Dance Revolution" can help reduce fall risk. Game developers who formerly focused on teens are now working on more devices targeting the over-65 user.

"Senior-friendly" gadgets

Many modern devices that were designed to make life easier actually have the opposite impact on older adults. A confusing, complicated menu of features and choices on phones, remote controls and computers makes for a daunting experience, especially when there are mysterious settings to inadvertently toggle. Fortunately, more companies are studying the needs of seniors and developing models tailored for users with low vision, decreased manual dexterity, memory loss, or just a disinclination to continually learn "what's new." For example, senior-friendly mobile phones come with larger buttons, high-contrast numbers, amplifiable volume—even a dial tone. Computers and software with simplified interfaces are available. Intuitive remote controls make home electronics more accessible. Developers are getting a resounding message from seniors: although technology can play a critical role in quality of life for older adults, technology can also be intimidating.

Dementia support technology

Increasingly sophisticated tracking systems prevent people with Alzheimer's and related conditions from getting lost, while providing peace of mind for family caregivers. Researchers are also developing simple handheld devices and smart phones that offer memory prompts and reminders. (For example, see the Microsoft SenseCam device at the top of this page.) Research also continues on memory-care computer programs that support brain health.

Of course, these emerging trends can't take the place of the human touch when it comes to caring for seniors. But with the ageing of the baby boomers, with more and more older adults preferring to age in place, and with increased pressure on family caregivers, new technical developments will continue to provide welcome, cost-effective supplemental support.

Photo: Microsoft Corporation