Aging in place is typically defined as an older adult’s ability to continue living in their own homes and communities; and aging in place products allow them to do it independently and safely, for as long as possible. Aging in place is a growing trend, and, according to AARP, nearly 90% of those 65 and older prefer this approach over moving to senior housing.
However, the goal of it is often complicated by a senior’s declining health and increasing needs. The challenges that older adults face include falls, sixty percent of which happen at home, The National Institute on Aging reports.
Fortunately, systems, products, and devices make it possible for adults to age in place. Some of these have been around for some time, while others have arrived on the scene more recently. Here is just a sampling of the best aging in place products that do not depend on technology to help seniors remain in their homes:
- Grab bars near the toilet and shower
- Bathtub/shower transfer bench
- Adjustable bed
- Tools that make kitchen tasks easier and safer
- Adaptive clothing and shoes
- Mobility aids such as a wheelchair or motorized scooter
- Ramps for entryways
- Stairlifts for multi-story homes
- Railings along all stairways
- Lift chairs for getting into and out of a seated position
While this is a partial list of non-tech products, there are also new smart devices that address the challenges of aging in place.
Walabot Home
An older adult can place the Walabot Home on a bathroom wall, and it scans continuously for movement. If it detects a fall, it calls a prearranged contact immediately. Falls cause many hospitalizations for older adults, and the time it can take for help to arrive often makes things worse.
The Walabot Home perceives the fall and automatically places a call for help, avoiding the need to wear a fall-detection device and press a button for assistance. Sensors and radio waves monitor motion and identify falls, after which the Walabot opens a two-way communication channel on the device.
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Mesh Wi-Fi is a system that employs multiple routers working together to provide high-speed Internet to every part of your house. It is now possible to have reliably connected devices that will work throughout the home. Mesh systems that deliver this connectivity are available from Samsung, Google, and Amazon.
One such device, the Samsung SmartThings Wi-Fi, also serves as a smart home hub, connecting sensors and other devices to trusted family members, allowing them to check-in remotely or alerting them if there is a problem.
Smart Security Systems
Keeping seniors safe from disasters and intruders is a priority when they are alone in their homes. A smart security system will monitor doors, windows, and motion and set off an alarm to notify both authorities and caregivers if there is trouble.
For example, Abode’s home security solution works with smoke alarms, flood sensors, and temperature sensors. When seniors share the Abode system with a caregiver, they can check-in using a smartphone app and ensure that the temperature is comfortable, and all the doors and windows are locked. The system will then alert the caregiver if there is smoke or carbon monoxide present.
June Oven
The June Oven is a multi-use appliance: toaster oven, convection oven, air fryer, and slow cooker in one. Its smart features include alerts to a phone when food is ready, a built-in camera that allows them to check on your food without getting up, and easy-to-use touchscreen controls.
June is a small countertop oven perfect for an older adult living alone. It takes much of the guesswork out of meal preparation with step-by-step cooking programs and voice control through Alexa. Caregivers can check the June Oven remotely and turn it off if it shouldn’t be on.
Sense Energy Monitoring Device
Another remote monitoring device is Sense, a whole-house electrical monitoring system that connects to the electrical panel. It is designed to track energy usage, but it can also tell which devices are on or off in the home and lets you turn them off from the Sense app.
Any caregiver with access to the app can remotely monitor activity in the house and receive alerts on the status of any devices. For example, a caregiver could set an alert to receive a notification if the microwave was turned on in the morning, and if not, they would know to make a check-up call. Just the peace of mind it gives loved ones makes it one of the best aging in place products.