Seniors Turn to Smart Tech to Age in Place Amidst a Pandemic

At the beginning of May, a backlash from angry senior citizens in the Philippines forced the government to rethink a plan that would see them confined to their homes long after lockdown measures have been lifted for younger residents. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez subsequently responded, stating that there would be ‘no house arrest for seniors’. While this age group automatically qualifies as ‘high risk’ with relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, many seniors are of the opinion that they should be allowed to make their own choices with regards to their well-being. One choice that an increasing number of seniors are making is that of aging in place. More seniors are choosing to grow old in a comfortable, well-known environment as opposed to an assisted living facility.

More seniors are choosing to age in place

Despite lockdown being set to end soon, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in countless seniors willingly spending most of their time at home. This fact, together with the increase in numbers of seniors choosing to age in place, has resulted in a rapid increase in the popularity of home-based smart technology. Voice assistants such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa might be popular when it comes to making phone calls, connecting to radio stations, and listening to music, but it can also help boost a senior’s safety and security. Voice assistants can also control lighting and temperature while providing seniors with important reminders to take their medicine or adhere to doctors’ appointments.

Smart security systems keep seniors safe at home

Since lockdown was implemented in the country, crime decreased by about 55% according to the Philippine National Police. While this is undoubtedly much-needed positive news, at-home security remains a big priority in the country. In recent years, smart security technologies have become a saving-grace for seniors looking to age in place. As the aging population is typically more at-risk to home invasions, it is of the utmost importance to invest in quality security systems. For example, smart doorbells and video cameras will not only alert a senior when someone is at the door, but also make it possible to accept deliveries without personal contact for as long as the coronavirus risk still looms.

Modest communication interfaces make keeping in touch easier

As it may take some time for lockdown to be ended completely, it remains important for seniors aging in place to find ways to communicate with their loved ones that do not entail face-to-face interaction. While a modern-day smartphone is designed with distance communication in mind, many seniors have difficulty navigating their way around a complicated device. There are, thankfully a number of smart yet simple devices that allow seniors to share photos and videos, send messages and emails, and even provide basic internet access. Even though the Philippines government has taken the pleas of the people to heart, any senior aging in place can still benefit greatly from a simplified communication device.

If given the chance, most seniors will undoubtedly choose to grow old in their own homes. Thankfully smart tech is making it increasingly easy for many older individuals to do exactly that.