Transforming Elderly Care with Smart Home Solutions

As the aging population grows, more countries are looking into offering value-based elderly care. There is no denying that the standard provision of support to facilitate independence is a must. However, beyond this, it is also crucial to look into new and innovative ways to maximise the quality of life for older persons. One of the ways to do so is to understand the perspectives older adults have of their homes and lives. This way, we can come up with the best action plan to address all the problems faced by the elderly in Singapore and ensure they stay safe and healthy for longer.  

Did you know that by 2030, 1 out of every 4 Singaporeans will be aged 65 or older? As of 2015, the ratio stood at 1 out of 8 – that equates to twice as many elderly within the short span of 15 years! Well aware of these increasing numbers, the Ministry of Health in Singapore has come up with an action plan. Going by the name “I Feel Young SG”, this campaign involves more than 70 initiatives, all of which aimed towards successful aging. Targeting pillars that include health and wellness, housing, healthcare and aged care, and protection for vulnerable seniors, this sharp focus on the problems faced by the elderly in Singapore are sure to be addressed in a matter of time. While the government takes the necessary steps towards limiting challenges and supporting aspirations of seniors, there are certain things that you can do to play your part to promote successful aging. 

Age Actively & Anchoring Self 

Remaining physically, mentally, and socially fit is always at the forefront of all our minds regardless of age – the same applies to the elderly. As much as retirement is seen as the “golden years” of one’s life, the fact of the matter is that many associate “old age” with a phase of limbo. Due to this lack of activity, it is common for an elderly person to spend a fair few years in poor health. Because of this, the government encourages the elderly to learn, volunteer, work, and stay healthy to maximise time and opportunities. 

So, where do smart home solutions come into the picture? For one, the convenience offered by smart homes remains unrivalled till this day. Capable of improving our quality of life, a smart home automation system can double as a smart care solution too. For example, smart gaming consoles can be used to keep you active, while smart lighting solutions and sleep trackers can be automated to ensure you’ve had good quality sleep. Worried that you’ll have too many smart devices and apps around the house? For essential smart home automation tech, opt for the Zigbee standard. This way, you can set your whole home up with just the Zigbee Wireless Hub.

Enabling Freedom 

With age, the number of elderly persons dependent on help naturally increases. However, that does not mean that the elderly should stay put at home and never venture out. In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of sensors that are deemed useful for seniors in a similar situation. Gadgets like proximity beacon tags can be attached to keychains and wallets. Functioning in a similar way to motion and contact sensors, caretakers will be informed if the seniors have taken their belongings with them and left their homes. Smart door and window sensors will also notify caretakers of the open and close status and the timing of each action. This makes the tracking of their movement a breeze and indirectly reduces the risks of caregiver burnout. 

Being Comfortable 

Similar to enabling freedom, successful aging in place also requires the elderly to feel absolutely comfortable in their own home. One revolutionary solution catered to smart care is the Smart SOS Button. Handy to bring around the house, this simple and lightweight device only requires a single press of a button to send out a signal to all family members. Whether carrying out daily tasks or attending to private matters such as showering and using the washroom, this smart care device made available by smart home solution providers like HomeAuto is one of the many tools that are complementary to other home automation devices for the elderly and disabled.

Have queries about HomeAuto and our range of home automation solutions for the elderly and disabled? Contact us at enquiry@homeauto.com.sg, and we will offer you more information on how you can play a part in helping the elderly in your family and home.