The emerging uses of gerontechnology

It’s apparent that there will not be enough professional caregivers to deliver services as we’re doing it today. Nor can increasingly strained family members meet the impending demand. Gerontechnology, “the study of aging and technology for the benefit of improved living and working environments for the elderly and their caregivers,” has great potential to improve the care the elderly can get with fewer caregivers.

A New York Times article, “Sensors Help Keep the Elderly Safe, and at Home” suggests that the use of technology can support aging in place (staying in ones home). The article describes a system (eNeighbor) that helps an older person live alone independently and provides protection if they have a health incident. The system consists of twelve different devices, including:

• a personal emergency call button that a person can push to get assistance,

• a camera,

• a telehealth device that can check on symptoms and measure vital signs in the home,

• sensors which identifies changes like if a refrigerator has been opened or closed, if medication has been taken, or if they have they gotten out of bed.

Other Gerontechnology examples:

• Dissertation on the use of telehealth devices to support under-served medical regions.

• Link2Care - an internet site offering information on every facet of caregiving for dementia, care planning, decision-making, and consultation - free.

Other Gerontechnology resources:

• Center for Aging Services Technologies (CAST)

I’m not suggesting that technology is a substitute for social support. The benefits of having close, personal relationships is well documented. But if technology in someone’s home can improve their health outcomes and provide a safer environment (at a lower cost than assisted living), I'm all for trying it. And giving caregivers a tool that lightens their burden is an added bonus.

(Next: Berkeley grads seeking some Bay Area contacts to road-test their ideas for keeping seniors in their homes.)