AI is helping older adults just as much as anyone else. As AI is mostly used for task automation and data analysis, it is also used for managing the lives of older people who want a bit more independence. From predictive analytics to home automation, here are some examples.
Real-Time Fall Detection and Prevention
A simple slip, trip, or fall can be devastating after a certain age and can cause more problems than just a nasty bruise. For example, a particularly nasty fall can break bones, make an existing issue worse, or even trigger a heart attack. A medical emergency response system for elderly people can help contact emergency services. However, AI-based systems can also help notify someone of an emergency in the case that a patient isn’t even able to press the button.
Monitoring and Predictive Analytics
One of the most stressful things about getting older and dealing with medical issues is going for tests all the time. Anyone, older people included, would rather be at home and getting on with life. This is where AI can be a massive help. With continuous monitoring systems, AI can provide all-day real-time feedback to medical staff, such as heart rates, blood pressure, and even sleep patterns. AI can also assess habits to predict if you have an incoming problem.
AI is Helping the Elderly with Medication Management
Studies into medical problems related to the elderly have found that between 40% and 50% of seniors struggle to stick to a medication schedule, resulting in medical complications. However, AI can help with many things, including setting up schedules and managing simple everyday tasks. In fact, even Perplexity can schedule tasks through WhatsApp, notifying you of things like medication times, dosages, and even how to deal with a medication-related problem.
Smart Home Automation Features
Nobody likes to rely on others for simple tasks, but this is common as we get older. Even something as trivial as switching off the lights and checking the doors are locked becomes a chore for an older person with mobility issues. However, AI systems can manage all these tasks and more. For example, you can set schedules and timers to switch off smart bulbs and activate smart locks, and these can also be controlled from a remote location to avoid using the stairs.
AI-Based Social Companionship
People always talk about the practical side of using AI in daily life, especially for the elderly. However, perhaps the most overlooked is the social and mental health benefits AI can offer. With LLMs becoming more human-like in their approach to interaction, it is becoming more challenging to tell if you are speaking with a machine or a human. Sci-fi fears aside, conversational AI tools can be a friend to lonely people, while also looking after your health.
Summary
Real-time fall detection is one way AI is helping the elderly live a more independent lifestyle with better peace of mind. AI tools can also help set schedules, such as medication reminders, but there are also conversational AI tools that can help people deal with the loneliness of aging.
