On January 9, 2007, Apple Inc. co-founder and CEO, Steve Jobs, introduced the iPhone to the world stage.  This innovative device combined a cell phone with a variety of applications, including a camera, music player, calculator, calendar, map and clock, among many others, and ultimately changed the way we live, learn and consume technology.

Although the iPhone was not the first smart handheld device to hit the market – predecessors like the Palm Pilot actually made their debut about a decade earlier – the revolutionary design and universal appeal of the iPhone was a game-changer for the smartphone industry.  For the first time in history, intuitive personal technology was available to the masses and in the 12 years since the debut of the very first iPhone, technology has continued to transform and enhance our daily lives.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is one such transformation that goes beyond the concept of containing technology within a single hand-held device.  According to an article published by Forbes, IoT “is the concept of basically connecting any device with an on and off switch to the Internet (and/or to each other). This includes everything from cellphones, coffee makers, washing machines… wearable devices and almost anything else you can think of.” These ‘online’ devices then have the ability to communicate with us – and each other – and have the capacity to improve the lives of older adults, helping them to remain active and healthy.

K4Connect is a company that specializes in IoT and smart living by “creating solutions that serve and empower older adults and individuals living with disabilities, in partnership with the people, communities and organizations that also serve them.”

According to the United Nations, the world’s population is aging, and the number of older adults is on the rise. By the year 2050, the global population is expected to reach nearly 2.1 billion and, for the first time in U.S. history, the population of older adults will outnumber those aged 18 years and under. That is why investment in smart IoT technology geared towards seniors is critically important to ensure our aging population remains as healthy and active as possible.

K4Connect offers solutions that provide “smart products and features” designed for older adults which can enhance a variety of facets of their lives, including:

  • Home – Smart lighting and thermostats can be controlled through app, remote or voice, and room and motion sensors can alert caregivers to trips, slips or falls
  • Wellness – Smart health devices can track steps, sleep hours, blood pressure and heart rate, as well as set reminders for medication management and food and water consumption. Devices with biosensors are predictive and can alert wearers to a health issue before symptoms arise
  • Engagement – Digital signage, in-home TV and other connected communications devices such as voice-activated messaging keeps seniors and their circle of care connected

With more and more advanced technology like this, we can help keep our seniors healthy and safe, especially when living further away or when we’re not able to check in on them as often.

Do you think IoT technology is useful to you and your loved ones? What other strategies do you think will be most beneficial as we get further into 2020? We’d love to hear from you!