Whether they’re looking for a vacation property close to the beach or a home where they can maximize convenience, condo owners want to enjoy their residences for as long as they can. That’s why condos are so popular among those who are living through their golden years.
More than 50 million Americans are 65 years of age or older; and according to the U.S. Census Bureau, that figure is expected to rise by 44% by 2030. The demand for products and services that cater to senior citizens will continue to grow.
Alerts and Reminders
Arguably the seminal product in this category was the Life Alert emergency notification system, which is now 30 years old. These offerings have become more advanced over the years. Today, they resemble devices like Lively, a wearable watch-like product which detects falls, tracks steps, and interfaces with smartphones. Today’s products do more than just alert first responders in cases of emergency. For example, Care Angel is a virtual nurse which calls residents and asks them about their well-being. If there are any areas of concern, the system alerts relatives or caregivers. There’s also Reminder Rosie, which reminds owners when it’s time to feed the cat, go to a doctor’s appointment, or perform many other common tasks.
High-Tech Helpers and Tools
The popular “smart speakers” like Amazon Echo are providing seniors with voice-activated information, music, and even thermostat control. The next generation of this technology can be found in “smart robots” like Zenbo or Jibo which actually move around.
Digital devices are also helping seniors become more social. The Grand Care system is a tablet-style product which can track medication, show health regimens, and display reminders. But it also acts as a social media portal that allows users to share photos, play games, or video chat with their family and friends.
Keeping Seniors Healthy
MedMinder is a digital pill dispenser that can automatically administer proper doses to seniors. It can be accessed remotely by a caregiver to monitor whether the senior has taken their medication. An app called SpeechMED provides an audible method of reading medication instructions, reminding them of appointments, and alerting caregivers when problems arise. For people who are sedentary, the ChairMaster is a piece of furniture equipped with a recumbent bike and resistance-training handles which allow the user to work out while remaining seated in their chair.
Seniors Want to See the World
For elderly people with vision problems, NuEyes is a “smartglasses” device which allows them to wear a headset that projects an image onto the lens so they can see wherever they are. The WHILL Model M wheelchair leverages the latest battery and mobility technology for an experience that is superior to traditional scooters and wheelchairs. And for jetsetting seniors, the Modobagmotorized carry-on suitcase lets travelers cruise through airports while sitting on top of their luggage.
These products and services are part of the “aging-in-place” movement, which promotes senior living in their own homes as opposed to assisted living. As a result, there is a huge amount of resources available that can help seniors stay healthy, remain social, and be mobile longer. So if you’re a condo owner who could use a little extra assistance, be sure to check out these senior living products!
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