I have been focused for close to two years now on wanting senior citizens to get onboard the Web3 train. What is that? It’s keeping up to date with technology and pertinent information for senior citizens to stay a part of today’s world being active participants in daily life, whereas, staying connected with family and being included in what’s happening today.
I have discussed non-fungible tokens, blockchain technology, smart contracts and so much more. I have been learning and have since created a few virtual reality spaces, you know, spatial computing, the metaverse. I have promoted the idea of senior citizen documents on-chain to be transparent where everyone sees but can not be altered. I recently embarked on new technologies for senior citizen healthcare. This article will introduce you to the world of smart wearables and smart home monitoring systems. Both allow the senior citizen to have independence longer which in turn gives a better quality of life in the present and into the future.
As the population ages, healthcare is looking to provide innovative solutions to aid in the independence and well-being of older adults. The focus is on better quality of life. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics offer the technologies to address the aging population. I want to dive into how senior citizens can use AI tools in healthcare and how healthcare is using AI tools as a diagnostic method.
Let’s look at wearable devices. There are smart devices such as wristbands, rings, and such that record heart rate, sleep patterns, anxiety, and stress level. AI can provide real time analysis, detect early warning signs, and provide personal level of care in real time.
AI virtual consultations, treatment planning and recommendations are done without leaving your home. Once considered telemedicine has moved to virtual space.
Let’s discuss medications. The pill box we see on our parents’ kitchen counter with days of the week labeled, you know the ones, need some assistance. AI tools can help with reminders ensuring their health and safety and documenting the time taken. They also can show when not taken.
AI tool algorithms are useful in so many ways. It can analyze large amounts of data from medical images, electronic health records, and other sources to determine patterns and make predictions about a patient’s health. One example is detecting early signs of heart disease to provide early treatment and intervention.
Being able to analyze behavior patterns and see the state of the heart at the present time with predictive data may one day save your life.
Several areas of elderly healthcare can be included to monitor data and understand the progression of many diseases. AI continues to grow as a way to detect and diagnose a large number of diseases including heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s.
The global challenge of population aging necessitates urgent and innovative solutions to support older adult’s independence and better quality of life. AI tools have the potential to improve the health and well-being of senior citizens if implemented.
Proactive care is crucial. A virtual assistant can assure appointments are made, medications are taken, and even order groceries. Considering the limited human resources, virtual assistants can provide opportunities for senior citizens to maintain their independence and have a better quality of life.
There are many healthcare companies that use computers, apps or other digital communication to record medical data. As the data is collected, it can be analyzed and used for early intervention and proactive care.
Smart home systems can integrate with AI adapting to a senior citizen’s routine. Think voice activated Alexa, assisting in various tasks such as turning on and off lights, adjusting room temperature and order groceries. Integrated with smart wearables these AI tools can detect vital sign abnormalities , alerting caregivers or appropriate medical professionals in real time.
AI technologies have the potential to improve the health and well-being of senior citizens by providing efficient and personalized monitored care, promoting independent living, and reducing healthcare costs.
Examples:
RingConn is a wearable smart ring that takes vitals. There are a few smart wearables.
QuietCare is an AI based monitoring system that uses motion detection to alert caregivers or family members in case of a fall or lack of routine movement.
Mabu is an AI virtual assistant that allows users to seek medical advice through a plethora of interfaces.
AI powered health monitoring systems can provide an added layer to senior citizen care and promote independent living longer. AI powered health monitoring systems have the potential to revolutionize elderly care by helping senior citizens live independently while receiving the support they need. By using AI to monitor senior citizens’ homes, caregivers and family members can be alerted to potential problems and take action before they become emergencies. AI technology can improve health monitoring. Promote independent living, provide cognitive assistance and foster social engagement.
Potential cost savings:
AI powered health monitoring systems can detect potential health issues early, allowing for prompt intervention and reducing the risk of adverse events. This can lead to fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits, which can result in significant cost savings.
Already mentioned, AI powered home monitoring systems can detect falls or unusual activity notifying family or caregivers. Allowing the senior citizen to stay at home longer, age in place, potentially leading to cost savings.
The advancement of AI can lead to potential cost savings by reducing hospitalizations, improving medication management, and reducing costs of caregivers.
AI tools have the potential to greatly improve the quality of life for senior citizens. Smart home monitoring systems can help senior citizens control their environment with ease which enhances their mobility and safety. Medication reminders can ensure they take the correct dosage. AI social tools (Alexa, etc) can alleviate loneliness and isolation amongst senior citizens by offering companionship and conversation. There are AI tools that can help senior citizens with cognitive impairments by providing reminders, answering questions and provide entertainment. As the aging population grows, it is crucial to continue exploring the potential of AI to improve the lives of senior citizens.
Ask yourself, how old will you be in ten, twenty, thirty years and if you will embrace technology today for a better quality of life tomorrow?
I wear a wearable smart ring. It has my heart rate, stress and anxiety level, my sleep patterns along with helpful notifications when needed. I can see my stress level patterns, along with anxiety, how active I am and when I need to improve, and my sleep patterns. This information is enabling me to set up not only a morning routine but a nightly routine, be aware of stressful situations and when I need to take a step back due to higher-than-normal anxiety levels.
It is useful to stay informed of what is happening now and being developed for the future. I predict that if used correctly, senior citizens can have a longer, healthier life with longer spans of independence. I for one am onboard the Web3 train for senior citizens to be able to stay active and a part of society. What types of things do you see that may be useful to use now or in the near future to enhance your own quality of life?
Thanks for reading,
Sandra Abrams
Onboard60 Founder
SababaLens