The Significance of Home Automation in Elderly Care

Promoting a caring and inclusive society requires resolving issues related to care for the elderly. The need for competent and compassionate care for the aged is growing in importance as the world’s population ages. 

Among Canada’s nearly 5 million seniors, 7.1% reside in some kind of care facility, such as a nursing home, a long-term care hospital, a chronic care facility, or private housing for the elderly. While most seniors still reside in their homes, about 30% of those aged 85 and up reside in special care facilities. 

Improved care quality can be achieved through medication management, social and recreational activities, home automation, and more.

Understanding the Needs of the Elderly

Physical Health	Medical Care: Many older people have chronic illnesses that require continual treatment. Regular checkups and prompt medical care are crucial.Mobility: Seniors often have mobility concerns. Accessible surroundings and assistive devices boost independence and well-being.Nutrition: Special dietary requirements and monitoring for diabetes or hypertension may be necessary.
Mental Health	Social Interaction: Isolation can cause mental health issues. Encourage social activities, family visits, and neighbourhood events to reduce unpleasant emotions.Cognitive Stimulation: Puzzles, games, and educational programs can help avoid cognitive decline.
Safety and Security	Home Safety: Preventing accidents requires addressing household dangers like slick flooring and poor lighting.Emergency Preparedness: Emergency preparation, support, and access to emergency services are essential.
Respect for Autonomy	Respect for Choices: Respecting and including the elderly in care and daily activities decisions promotes dignity and control.

Home Automation As A Solution

Home automation is a game-changer in the field of elder care. With smart devices and systems, this technology can automate and regulate several aspects of a residence. We can keep tabs on their wellness in real time, identify any problems before they become serious, and react quickly to any health-related incidents. 

The general well-being and autonomy of the elderly are greatly enhanced by home automation systems, which create a comfortable and accommodating atmosphere for their daily lives. 

Home Automation Options for Senior Homes

Home Automation
Product	Specification
Water Sensor	Designed with wireless technologyThe included 3V CR123 Lithium battery spans up to 8 yearsDimensions of 8.1 x 3.4 x 2.5cmCapable of being installed discreetly throughout your property.
Smart Lightbulb	Ability to adjust brightness across a wide range of 100 levelsAutomate outdoor lights with door sensorsCreate motion-based rules with cameras
Smart Thermostat	Effortless temperature management with our Geo-Services automation featureNotifications of extreme temperature variancesVoice assistant compatible
Smart Plugs	Can handle up to 120VACAbility to place these Smart Plugs up to 30.5 meters from your wireless controllerOur smart plug makes it easy to control your tiny appliances.

Home Automation Benefits in Elderly Care

• Smart cameras, door/window sensors, and motion detectors can improve house security for remote senior monitoring.
• Automatically phone emergency services or notify caretakers when accidents or crises occur.
• Automated medication reminders help seniors follow their treatment goals.
• Warn caregivers or emergency personnel of strange patterns or falls.
• Automated climate control systems keep homes cool and comfortable.
• Lighting systems can be automated by time of day to improve visibility and reduce accidents.
• Voice-controlled smart speakers with virtual assistants can help seniors with mobility issues engage with their environment.
• Occupancy-based energy optimization creates a more sustainable and affordable living environment.

Real-Life Event

The tragic tale of Mary Wong is just one of many real-life incidents that highlight the need for senior care facilities to implement home security measures. She is a 97-year-old woman whose $3.4K diamond was stolen from her Vancouver nursing home.

When the elderly woman moved into the Arbutus Long Term Care Home in Vancouver in November 2019, she was forced to part with nearly all of her belongings. But the .65-carat diamond engagement ring her husband gave her in 1943 remained her most prized possession. Unfortunately, the centrepiece diamond, valued at around $3,400, has gone missing. Mary and Janice Wong, her daughter, think someone used a tiny pair of pliers to steal the diamond of the ring while she slept at the Arbutus care facility.

Despite Mary Wong’s death, the diamond was never found. Janice Wong is keeping her fingers crossed that this case will lead to increased camera monitoring in public areas and hallways of nursing homes in British Columbia.

Give Elders The Best Care 

With its innovative use of cutting-edge technology, Home Automation is revolutionizing how seniors are cared for. It helps with their health monitoring, safety, and quality of life. This not only makes the home a safer place to live, but it also gives the families of the elderly a sense of relief. 

By promoting Home Automation in elderly care, we not only harness the power of innovation to enhance safety but also champion a more dignified and empowered aging experience for our senior population. 

Protect what’s important to you with MAG Smart Security’s broad range of advanced services and products. You can trust us to provide exceptional security solutions because we are committed to exceeding your expectations with innovation, quality, and customer service.