Overcoming Age-related Independence Loss with Smart Technologies

Sally Perkins, Freelance Writer and Content Manager  

People in the UK are more scared of age-related independence loss than death, according to the results of a survey published by The Telegraph. Unfortunately, it appears that this is what the future actually holds for most because health problems and mobility loss typically come with age, especially for individuals who do not take good care of their health. This means that sooner or later, the simplest of tasks—like going to the bathroom, for example—could become monumental challenges that require assistance. The good news, however, is that there are now all sorts of smart devices and wearable technologies that can help give older people age with freedom and dignity. 

Mobility aids

First up are wearable mobility aids like robotic clothes and exoskeletons. These technologies are specifically designed to enable people with otherwise limited mobility to move normally without assistance from others. They, in effect, not only give the user back their independence, but also bring a host of health benefits to the table by promoting overall increased levels of physical activity.

According to the UKs National Health Service (NHS), regular exercise is crucial for healthy ageing. Aside from preventing health problems like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia and osteoporosis, it also helps people retain their mobility as they get older. Long story short, by simply moving more, people should be able to keep moving without problems well into old age.

Smart household tools

Of course, there are cases where the person’s condition is so serious that even mobility aids are not enough to completely address the problem. This is where smart appliances like automated vacuums and robotic mops come in. These near-autonomous gadgets allow people who have serious mobility problems to still accomplish a lot of things despite their condition, allowing them to wash and dry clothes, clean the house, wash the dishes and even cook all sorts of delicious meals with pretty much just a single press of a button.

A smarter way to live

Ageing and independence loss used to go hand in hand. Fortunately, recent advancements in technology have changed this. For the first time ever, older adults, especially those with mobility issues, are no longer required to live out their days in a nursing home, unable to do anything on their own. They now have to power to take control and live virtually independently, thanks to tools like wearable mobility aids and smart household appliances.