Today’s retirees have an array of senior living options available to them. Some choose to stay at home and age in place. As they grow older and their needs change, they can have loved ones, professional home health aides, nurses, and other caregivers assist them as needed. For those who don’t have the support systems they need, independent and assisted living communities can bridge the gap. Each option offers different levels of independence while also meeting residents’ unique health and medical needs. From there, memory care and life plan communities and other options are also at seniors’ disposal.
Fostering Independence for Seniors in New Ways
Until fairly recently, many seniors were forced to make certain sacrifices to ensure their needs were met. Remaining fully independent often meant not having access to as much care and assistance as they needed. In contrast, receiving assistance with the activities of daily living and other requirements meant having to give up much of their freedom and independence. At this point, though, more seniors are able to live independently for longer without making unnecessary compromises thanks to artificial intelligence.
Wearable Devices
On the most basic level, AI-powered wearable devices can make a significant difference in seniors’ lives. These devices monitor various aspects of people’s health, including heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, respiration rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns. All those factors can be indications of a person’s health. If they stray from normal, that can be a sign of problems. Wearables constantly monitor those metrics. They can send data to seniors’ physicians, loved ones, and others who need to know about potentially dangerous changes.
Additionally, wearables monitor physical activity. They can keep help determine whether seniors are getting enough exercise or they’re becoming increasingly sedentary. These devices can detect falls and alert emergency services if they happen as well. They can even detect developing balance and coordination issues in some cases. All of those capabilities can aid in keeping seniors safe and healthy while also allowing them to maintain their independence.
In-Home Sensors
In-home sensors that are powered by artificial intelligence can also be integral in helping seniors live independently. They can monitor many of the same metrics as wearables, but they may be able to take matters even further. For example, sensors may be able to detect heat signatures that shouldn’t be there, such as when a stove or oven is inadvertently left on. If a person seems to trip or fall in the same area of the home repeatedly, sensors can make note of that and alert caregivers or loved ones that a safety risk may be present.
AI Assistants
Next, let’s take a look at AI assistants. Almost everyone uses these to at least some extent these days. They can certainly be helpful for seniors. AI assistants can remind people to take their medications, eat, and carry out other activities they may otherwise forget. They can assist with setting up appointments, arranging for transportation, creating grocery lists, ordering essentials to be delivered to the home, and countless other tasks.
Improving Seniors’ Lives With Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence can help keep seniors safe and healthy and allow them to maintain their independence in numerous ways. Those listed here barely scratch the surface. From wearable devices and home automation to providing companionship and monitoring for signs of cognitive decline and depression, the possibilities are virtually endless. Artificial intelligence isn’t a substitute for human caregivers and companionship, but it can certainly improve seniors’ lives from several angles.
