Artificial Intelligence and the Role it will Play in Elderly Care

While the global population rapidly ages, technology keeps innovating as well. That’s why there’s a call for senior care to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of today’s technology. However, an in-depth analysis reveals that technology has indeed been a part of the senior care industry for many years now. From the internet to computers, these all play significant roles in caring for our elderly. But one thing that is quickly emerging is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in elderly care.

Artificial Intelligence and Senior Health Care

So, what is the role AI plays or will play in caring for our elderly? Let’s find out.

1. Communications will increase

It is essential to keep constant communication about the elders in the family. The introduction of AI-enabled technologies, such as Alexa in mobile, IoT devices, or apps, will empower family members and the care team to increase the level of communication among themselves regarding better care for their senior dear ones. It’s especially crucial for seniors who are being cared for at home. For example, in emergencies, there’s an SOS device that will immediately inform all the care team members.

2. AI chatbots can provide companionship to seniors

Today’s fast-paced environment is where everyone needs to run to survive. Working takes most of our time, and providing companionship to our senior loved ones usually takes a backseat. AI chatbots can provide this companionship that the elders very much need. These are called social robots whose roles include reminding them when to take their medicines, their doctor’s appointments, or even when they are supposed to eat. Some of them can also remind seniors if social events are happening in the neighborhood, encouraging them to go out and socialize. 

3. AI devices can predict and prevent falls

Seniors who live alone always fear that they may fall and no one can help them immediately. Fortunately, there’s an emerging wearable AI technology that can predict or even prevent falls. So, it’s an excellent opportunity for older people to be confident even to go outside. They don’t have to be confined in their home all the time because of the fear of falling.

4. AI sensors can notify emergency services

Installing AI-powered sensors at home can also identify if a senior has fallen or has encountered an accident. It will then automatically send signals to the emergency services for help. It’s another way of reassurance and confidence for older people living alone at home.

5. Wearables and implants can provide continuous monitoring

We will consistently see technology and artificial intelligence drive continuous healthcare for older adults through wearables, implants, and other forms of sensors. These devices will perform almost one hundred percent diagnostics and monitor seniors with health conditions. The data they will collect can be used for certain lifestyle decisions, such as the exercise amount or medication changes.

6. GPS can track the movements of the elders

Yes, GPS is also powered by AI, and you can use it to track older people’s movements. Machine learning programs could use this data to alert the senior’s care team and family members when there are changes with his or her activities. If some people think it’s a privacy invasion issue, you can simply set it to register the duration that the senior individual has been out of the house.

7. AI could collect more in-depth health data

Many of the AI apps on smartphones available today could monitor health data, such as daily activities, diet, and even the senior’s lifestyle, in a less intrusive way. They could even perform a more in-depth scanning of the person’s blood pressure or even electrocardiogram monitoring. In such cases, it could help in anticipating and, therefore, preventing any possible hypertension or irregular heart rate (atrial fibrillation).

Conclusion

The World Health Organization projects that people 65 years old and above would reach at least 1.5 billion in 2050. With the rapid growth of the aging population, we could indeed use the help of technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, in caring for our seniors. However, are they meant to replace humans in the future? In my opinion, the human touch is still the most critical element in senior healthcare. Therefore, AIs and other technologies must be treated as an aid, not as a replacement to humans.