The Age of Technology and Aging

As we age, technology can play a crucial role in maintaining our independence, comfort, and connection. The category of technology solutions that are designed to meet the needs of the aging population, called AgeTech by the folks at AARP. In an effort to bring together the various startups, investors, and tech companies who are working in this area they hope to develop groundbreaking innovations. In an ambitious call for collaboration, new technology can impact a number of ways that  can help our aging population navigate money, homes, and health.

What Does AgeTech Include?

AgeTech encompasses a wide range of products, services, and experiences across various industries that aim to make aging easier. These include:

• Health: Technologies that promote health and well-being.
• Finances: Financial technologies that help manage finances.
• Mobility: Solutions that enhance mobility and independence.
• Smart Home/Internet of Things (IoT): Smart home devices that create a safe and convenient environment.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-powered tools that provide assistance and support.

Age Related Innovations on Display at the CES in December 2024

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) showcases the latest technical innovations across the spectrum of life. There were a number of devices and services featured that are designed to enhance independence, improve health, and foster social connections for those 55 and older. Here are a few remarkable items. 

• The Lotus Ring: A wearable device that turns your finger into a remote control for your smart home. You can point at your television to turn it on, or your lights, or turn off your oven from across the room. 
• ELEHEAR Beyond: Over-the-counter hearing aids that enhance speech clarity and provide tinnitus relief using advanced AI technology. 
• XanderGlasses: Augmented reality glasses that display real-time captions of conversations. Now you can read what people are saying to you, even in a crowded room.
• MoGo’s powered clothing: Wearable technology that boosts leg power and supports knees. 
• Hyodol: An AI care companion robot that provides medication reminders, emotional support, and emergency alerts.
• Ageless Innovations companion pet robots: Interactive pet robots that provide companionship and reduce agitation for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Collaboration is a Key Role for Innovation

People working in the elder care field know that as the overall population starts to age, using advanced technology is going to make it easier and safer for seniors. Whether they are aging in place or aging in a care community like Masonic Care Community. AARP and other stakeholders are working together to better integrate their systems to make a greater impact on our aging population. With billions of potential dollars for innovative companies to tap for an eager audience looking for new solutions to aging problems. 

Overcoming Barriers to Adoption

Despite all of these potential benefits from burgeoning technologies, adoption among older adults has been slow. Concerns about cost, data security, and the lack of age-friendly design has contributed to this sluggish adoption. To overcome these barriers, technology manufacturers must respond to the different needs of consumers as they age. It’s not enough to have the technology, everyone needs to be comfortable using it. This means that innovation needs to be as much about design as about technology. 

The Future of Technology for the Aging Population

The path ahead is exciting as greater advances in AI and microprocessors improve and industries focus on how they will help our aging population. Having some forms of technology in place will help caregivers as well, giving them some peace of mind or reducing the work load by having a new piece of technology that can help with some of the burdens of caring for a loved one. At Masonic Care Community, we are open to technology that enhances our ability to provide quality care with a human touch. New Technology is not about replacing humans, it’s about giving them the energy and time to connect.