Self-driving cars
Having to give up driving is something most seniors fear since being behind the wheel is key to maintaining independence. Google is already testing self-driving cars, which use sensors to evaluate the environment around them and software to handle the actual driving. The cars are still in the experimental stage but will be widely available within a decade. Self-driving cars are one of the best things that will happen for older adults. Once you give up driving, you become very dependent. This car could give you the freedom to go where you want to.
Edema socks
These socks, based on technology by the Danish company Ohmatex, can detect and notify wearers of swollen feet and edema, which is often a sign of health ailments or other health problems.
SmartSox for people with diabetes
Researchers are testing SmartSox, which use fiber optics to detect excessive pressure, heat and misplaced joint angles that could cause foot ulcers. This is useful because people with diabetes often lose sensation in their feet and can’t always feel such changes.
Shirts that administer CPR
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has been working on creating a shirt that would sense a heart attack and administer CPR. While he estimates such a shirt is still a few years away, shirts with sensors are already on the market, used primarily by athletes. But when this shirt launches, this might be one useful thing to add in your elder’s wardrobe!
Nurse robots
A person to look after our elderly is a problem faced by many. Researchers have been experimenting for years with robots that would have enough artificial intelligence to work as health care aides. The robots might issue medication reminders as well as transmit data to family and health care providers. Robot caregivers are being tested in England, Greece, and Poland, moving closer to its launch. But the challenge of convincing our elders about the credibility of these robots is a huge challenge!
Smart homes with voice controls
Smart home technology that uses sensors, apps or computers is already in use, but it has not been widely adopted. Researchers are working on improving voice-recognition systems so smart home programs can be operated by voice. That will be a boon to older residents who don’t use computers or have trouble seeing small screens. It will actually not be about robots but the entire home will be smart. They won’t have to set it or program it or read a manual, the home works automatically!
(Courtesy: money.usnews.com)