Smart Homes for Older People: Positive Aging in a Digital World

Abstract

Smart homes are homes with technologically advanced systems to enable domestic task automation, easier communication, and higher security. As an enabler of health and well-being enhancement, smart homes have been geared to accommodate people with special needs, especially older people. This paper examines the concept of “smart home” in a technologically driven society and its multi-functional contribution to the enhancement of older people’s lives. Discussion then focuses on the challenges in the use of smart homes among older people such as accessibility and ethical issues. Finally, some implications and recommendations are provided.

Keywords

• smart home
• older people
• positive aging
• health and wellbeing
• accessibility
• ethics
• acceptance of technology