The Internet of Things (IoT) is assisting society in managing the demands of an aging population, which is a big concern. Between 2010 and 2018, the number of people aged 65 and up in the UK will rise by 23%. People aged 65 and up will increase by just under 7 million by 2035, from 11 to 16.9 million.
In 1908, one percent of the population was anticipated to live to be 100 years old, but that number has grown to one in three since 2012. People will certainly suffer from a greater number of health problems as they live longer. On average, care homes are costly – £2000 a month – and many people would want to remain self-sufficient in their own homes. The primary idea here is safety, and if family members cannot afford home nurses, they may have to quit working to provide care.
As technology advances, the Internet of Things (IoT) may assist in resolving these difficulties. Data acquired from IoT devices are used to create an individual’s daily story by monitoring their routine, detecting discrepancies, and, if necessary, alerting emergency services. Connected IoT devices in the home boost security; experts predict that by 2017, 50 million wireless consumer health monitoring gadgets will be sold, making the smart home a reality.
The smart home
Many sensors in homes monitor daily activities. When people entered and exited a room, motion sensing light sockets turned on and off, and door sensors could track movement patterns. Water and power sensors monitored cooking and dishwashing times, as well as when the resident was most likely to start the kettle.
Smart Security Band
Suraksha Band by Teksun is a panic button that allows older people and women to tell their family members of their whereabouts with a single click in an emergency. It’s meant so that women may alert others if they’re in danger or so that the elderly may alert others if they’re having health problems while they’re away from home. As a result, the safety of loved ones can be ensured.
Self-learning stove alarm
The self-learning stove alarm is more than just a smoke and heat detector. It gathers data to learn about a person’s cooking habits in a particular home. It’s quite dangerous to fall asleep with the stove on or just forgetting that it’s on. This little device is designed to give out warnings before hazardous gases are discharged or a fire begins.
Smart controlling temperature
The temperature-activated flow reducer screws onto a tap faucet and shuts off the water in a sink or shower if it gets too hot, preventing burns or scalding. Furthermore, the IoT thermostat improves energy use efficiency and adjusts the temperature within the house depending on the weather outside. Both devices are really simple, yet they are extremely beneficial for people who have health concerns exacerbated by extreme temperatures, such as severe arthritis.
Smart doorbell
This surprisingly powerful device offers a lot of functionality in a small package. A locked front door is one of the most effective barriers to burglary, and a smart doorbell increases security. It allows residents to see who is at the door without opening it, giving them the option to speak, record, or take a snapshot and view it on their tablet/smartphone. It can allow anyone in, such as medical personnel, which is ideal for less mobile persons. Family members can be informed of who has entered the house thanks to the app, which provides peace of mind.
Smart speakers
Smart speakers can do everything from play music to answer queries, read audiobooks, and provide traffic and weather updates. If necessary, it can also contact emergency services via connected phones. It serves as the smart home’s hub, controlling lights, switches, and thermostats. The smart speaker can also notify someone if they have taken or skipped their prescription when connected to sensor pads. The pads are linked to a mobile app that may be used on a tablet or smartphone. Placing the medicine on the buffer then captures information on when certain tablets were taken, allowing residents to be reminded if they missed a dose or if they are about to take too much.
Wrapping up
IoT Solution not only relieves the pressure on healthcare services by allowing the elderly to remain in their homes. It’s life-saving, undetectable, and efficient. It will enable an older population to preserve their independence while providing peace of mind to friends and family.
Author: Sheetal Tank, Content Writer Teksun Inc