Recently Announced Technologies for Aging in Place

It’s a few months before CES 2012 and a flurry of new product announcements will soon flutter out leading up to and including the Silvers Summit and Digital Health events in Las Vegas. Ahead of those to-be-determined announcements, other companies (and one core technology) have announced offerings worth noting that can help seniors and/or caregivers of seniors and deserve a heads-up to learn more via the links below. Information here is quoted from the press or vendor announcement:

Touch-free Life Care System (BAM Labs):  “Touch-free connected care innovator BAM Labs recently launched the Touch-free Life Care System that converts any conventional bed into a “smart” bed. The system lets caregivers remotely monitor residents based on their health management needs, including alerts, without having to attach anything to the patient’s body.”

5Star Responder (Great Call): “5 Star Agents are trained to provide assistance for a wide variety of personal safety and security situations, and only you can decide when it’s time to call for help. 5Star is designed for anyone who feels their safety is being compromised or threatened, or could use some professional help in determining the appropriate course of action, especially if they’re not sure if they should call 9-1-1.”

SenseAide: “For caregivers of seniors, SenseAide uses a videophone that allows seniors to see and hear members of the care community, and allows caregivers to see and hear senior clients. SenseAide provides a set of Internet sensors that monitor activity levels in the home to ensure that the senior is able o keep up with their care regimen.”

Telecoil loop support in public places: “These hearing loops, typically installed on the floor around the periphery of public places, are a thin strand of copper wire radiating electromagnetic signals that can be picked up by a tiny receiver already built into most hearing aids and cochlear implants. In its 2009/2010 reviews of hearing aid models, the Hearing Review Products reported that 127 (60%) of 212 hearing aid models --including all 38 in-the-ear models and 29 of 30 conventional behind-the-ear models--come with telecoils.” (NYTimes October 23, 2011)

Nextdoor:  “A private social network for neighborhoods, announced the nationwide availability of its free online platform specifically designed to foster neighbor-to-neighbor communication. Neighbors can create private websites for their neighborhoods where they can ask questions, get to know one another and exchange local advice and recommendations. Topics of discussion include local events, plumber recommendations, recent crime activity, upcoming garage sales or lost pets.” (NY Times October, 26, 2011)

Virtual Health: “Virtual Health executives announced the company’s launch at a press conference in New York City where its initial rollout will be, unveiling a platform of IT tools and technology, designed to offer personalized tools and services, keep track of their vital signs, communicate with caregivers and healthcare providers, receive health and wellness tips, arrange to have meals delivered and deal with certain financial issues.”