Age tech is digital technology that has been developed with older individuals’ needs and preferences in mind, involving them in the design process. In a more general context, age tech could refer to any technology that enhances the quality of life for senior citizens. Accordingly, a smart pillbox that will remind her to take her vitamins and a care-coordination app that several family members use to arrange who will drop granny off at the movies to meet with her pals this week also fit within the Age Tech category. ElderTech, Gerontech, Gerontechnology, SilverTech, and even AgingTech—which suggests that the technology itself is aging—are some synonyms for this phrase.
Approximately 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day, putting the world on the verge of a demographic change that AARP predicts will last for the next ten years. Since older adults will now make up more than 20% of the population, there will be a larger emphasis on health solutions for those over 65. Older persons are more prone than people in other age groups to experience cognitive decline, mobility issues, visual and hearing loss, and chronic health diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and arthritis.
With fewer caregivers and a growing need for senior care, aging populations around the world are placing strain on healthcare systems. AI-powered “age tech,” or solutions for the elderly, promises more individualized, safer, and more efficient care. Safety is just one aspect of integrating medical AI; other considerations include autonomy and dignity.
We are getting older and older
The population of the planet is getting older. Globally, people are living longer and having fewer children. Nearly a quarter of the world’s population, or 2.1 billion individuals, are predicted to be over 60 by 2050. There will be fewer younger individuals to care for them as a result of the population’s enormous increase in the proportion of elderly persons. It also means that persons over 65 now hold more wealth than they did in the past. The term “longevity economy” refers to the total amount of economic activity produced by older persons.By 2020, the worldwide spending power of individuals aged 60 and beyond is predicted to surpass $20 trillion.
Modern technology by offering real-time monitoring, alerting, and caregiver communication, AI-powered solutions can make remote patient monitoring easier. It is crucial in assisted living facilities where unplanned falls or medical emergencies call for immediate care. This is especially important for those who are aging in their homes without care staff present. By remotely monitoring vital signs, physical activity, and other health data, AI-powered technologies allow caregivers to respond quickly. AI-powered apps can be very helpful in monitoring prescription schedules, reminding senior citizens, and alerting medical professionals to any missed doses, all of which help to guarantee that patients receive consistent care.
Using resources to support elderly care
AI can be used to improve the work of caretakers, but it is not anticipated to replace them. By allowing caregivers to spend more time with their patients, AI-powered remote patient monitoring systems can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of care. Predictive analytics powered by AI can foresee possible health hazards, resulting in early diagnosis and treatment and avoiding protracted illnesses. Large-scale health data sets can be analyzed by AI, which can also spot patterns and trends and forecast a person’s chance of contracting particular illnesses or problems. AI solutions also address the mental health of patients who are 65 years of age or older. Although they can not take the place of in-person interactions, virtual companions can offer amusement, conversation, and company, which helps people feel less alone and isolated.
Using wearables to change care
Beyond monitoring systems, AI has an impact on senior care. Wearable technology is one example of how age tech has developed into a variety of products that improve the quality of life for people over 65. These gadgets serve as essential safety nets in an emergency, promote an active lifestyle, and track vital indicators and physical activity.
For instance, Apple’s Fall Detection technology, which is integrated into the Apple Watch, provides older folks with peace of mind by detecting falls using sophisticated algorithms and sensors. When a fall is detected, the watch asks the wearer whether they are okay. Whether they are not, it automatically informs emergency services and notifies pre-selected contacts, which could save lives.
Other AI-powered technologies used in elder care include AI robots and virtual home assistants (VHAs). By using voice commands to perform tasks like playing music, setting reminders, and turning on lights, Alexa or Google Assistant can make people’s daily lives easier. AI robots perform a larger range of duties than VHAs, such as helping seniors get dressed, take medications, and purchase groceries, offering much-needed companionship and social interaction.
Getting along with AI
For a number of years, older individuals have been using technology and the internet more frequently. Baby boomers, the first generation of older adults who have lived through the digital revolution firsthand, began turning 65 in 2011. Although they can afford to buy technology, they will not spend it on things that do not align with their values and sense of self. Wi-fi will hopefully be available in every home as it is a basic requirement for many products and services, and I think we will see a lot more tech products vying for those boomer money.
Though it has limitations, artificial intelligence (AI) is a revolutionary tool that could transform senior care. As we continue to explore the nuances of this state-of-the-art technology, we must also be aware of potential risks, such privacy concerns. AI’s primary function is to collect, process, and store vast amounts of data, which could offer a significant challenge for senior care.