Written by Joanne Artz, Assistant Director and Head of User Services Emerita, David L. Rice Library
I’m a homebody, thriving in home’s comfort, safety and privacy, with the ability to be fully, independently myself surrounded by personal things with stories to tell. It’s no wonder I’m among the majority of older adults hoping to live in place, remaining active in my community as long as possible rather than in residential care. To do so requires not only personal planning, but the work of talented gerontechnological innovators to support activities of daily living, personal health, safety, mobility, communication and physical and cognitive activity. Gerontechnology is a recent interdisciplinary field of technology and environmental design promoting independent living for older persons while strengthening their networks.
Eventually unable to live completely independently, persons with dementia require increasing assistance and care, which places burdens on their families and providers. Implementing a system for home-based dementia care relies on innovative technological solutions, as do adaptation and care for disabled persons. Helping those who can remain at home rather than enter facility-based care may be desirable, easing family worries and pocketbooks. Smart home technology such as sensors, voice activation, locator devices, Bluetooth, smartphone monitoring apps, fall alarm mats, medication management aids, wearable devices, robotic assistance — these and more contribute to living in place, easing caregiving, and some measure of continued independence. Innovation for living in place is not only about devices, but home interior and exterior design, accessible kitchen and bath and furniture to provide comfort and safety.
The Ohio Valley hosts at least two working smart home prototypes. Louisville’s Thrive Center includes a kitchen, living area, bedroom and bathroom outfitted with cutting edge technology to enhance older adults’ lives. The Minka Learning Lab for Living Well, part of USI since 2018, represents innovation in small home design, engineering and construction. Showcase and learning lab for integrated technology and AI, the Minka is open to healthcare professionals, faculty, students and the public. An advisory board comprised of intergenerational campus and community members evaluates exciting new technologies, including those supporting dementia care. My favorite? The Tertill Garden Weeding Robot! Virtually touring the Minka is currently under development, but the best way to experience the Innovation@Home is to tour in person.
