9 Smart Home Devices That Support Aging in Place 

Aging in place is a priority for many older adults. Rather than moving into assisted living, many want to remain in the comfort of their own homes. 

Fortunately, smart home technology is making that goal more achievable than ever. From voice assistants to smart pill dispensers, today’s connected devices make it much safer for older adults to maintain their independence. 

Here are 10 smart home devices that can help seniors age in place with greater independence and confidence. 

#1 Voice-Powered Assistants 

Operated by simple voice commands, AI-driven devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are increasingly used by older adults to: 
 

• Control other smart home devices 
• Perform multiple actions simultaneously, such as closing blinds and turning on lights  
• Provide appointment and medication reminders 
• Answer questions 
• Make phone calls 
• Play music and other content 
• Access news and weather updates 

#2 Complete Home Security Systems 

Sensors and cameras monitor property access and the home itself using visual and movement data. They can also automatically alert authorities under certain conditions. However, installing cameras inside homes raises privacy concerns, complicated by cybersecurity vulnerabilities. 
 

#3 Smart Lighting 

Smart lighting systems offer energy savings and flexibility in controlling household lighting. They can be scheduled, motion- or voice-activated or controlled manually from a mobile device. This ensures older adults getting out of bed at any hour will be able to navigate the home safely. 
 

#4 Smart Thermostats 

Older adults may forget to adjust the thermostat, but a smart thermostat can do this automatically based on a preprogrammed schedule or learned heating and cooling patterns. This provides additional energy and cost savings. 
 

#5 Smart Window Blinds 

An older adult enjoying natural light during the day may not remember to close the blinds at night, posing privacy and security risks. Smart window blinds can operate on a schedule or automatically respond to light and heat levels. 
 

#6 Smart Plugs  

Smart plugs convert non-smart devices into smart ones when linked to a mobile app. They allow older adults to control traditional lamps without getting up and automatically turn them off at set times. Smart plugs also prevent dangerous situations by alerting the user when space heaters or heating pads are left on. 
 

#7 Smart Keyless Locks 

There’s a knock at the door: If an older adult is alone at home and unsure whether they locked their door, they can secure it by pressing a button on their mobile device, ensuring their safety. 
 

#8 Smart Pill Dispensers 

Older adults often take multiple medications daily. Smart pill dispensers help manage scheduling and dispensing via touchscreens and automated alerts.  
 

#9 Smart Contact Sensors 

When a full smart home security system isn’t feasible, strategically placed contact sensors can monitor door, window, refrigerator or pantry activity. All these are crucial for remotely supervising an older adult’s welfare.  
 

Make a Smart Choice for Your Career Prospects 

Help older adults live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives through cutting-edge research, advanced technology and groundbreaking treatments. The University of Florida provides the knowledge you need to excel in a range of rewarding careers. 
 
Investigate technology with a gerontology lens through courses such as Data Science and Technology in Gerontology in your choice of 30-credit online master’s degrees:  
 

• Online Master’s Degree in Innovative Aging Studies 
  Explore aging from multiple perspectives as you gain the expertise to advocate for older adults.  
  
• Online Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 
  Expand your career options in a distinctive program that blends content from our master’s degree in innovative aging studies and our medical physiology graduate certificate. 

Or build skills and enhance your resume and medical school application quickly with a 15-credit graduate certificate: 
 

• Online Graduate Certificate in Aging and Geriatric Practice   
  Enter a UF master’s program in aging after completing this certificate and you may be able to apply up to 15 credits toward the degree, cutting your time to graduation in half! 

Prepare for the future of aging. Apply now to the program that aligns with your career goals! 
 
Sources: 
https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/smart-home-or-building 
https://ewcstatic.thehartford.com/thehartford/the_hartford/files/CMME/home-maintenance-guide.pdf 
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/smart-home-for-seniors/  
https://www.accessibility.works/blog/ai-smart-home-accessibility/  
https://www.scip.org/news/679604/Smart-Technologies-for-Smart-Aging-How-AI-is-Revolutionizing-Elderly-Care-.htm 
https://pgsignal.com/2024/03/04/will-ai-finally-make-smart-homes-smart/