Week 2:  Emerging Technologies for Aging

Systems that monitor behavior of adults in their homes:  Technology can be used to monitor behaviors, determine in bed restlessness and monitor when someone is showering or using the toilet.   

o Livindi (https://www.livindi.com /) 

o Envoy at home (https://www.envoyathome.com/elderly-monitor-product/ ) 

Technologies that  use data from smart homes:  Technologies with digital prompts and reminder messages have been seen to be useful with managing chronic diseases and may actually improve cognitive function.  In particular, sleep monitoring can measure nocturnal agitation or delirium, associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.  

Technologies to assist in wound care:  One of the biggest advances may be to develop sensors that can prevent or monitor wounds for fast healing such as sensors that detect bacteria.  Additionally, smart textiles can be created which augment natural sensation in individuals with neuropathy (reducing diabetic foot ulcers), automated systems to vary skin pressure in a wheelchair or bed, technologies that can monitor existing wounds and infections such as smart bandages which detect movement, deliver drugs, monitory healing, detect infection and communicate directly with the physician, and even a designing a system of implantable biomaterials which can administer biomechanical, electrical or mechanical factors to promote healing.

o Smart bandages:  https://www.caltech.edu/about/news/smart-bandages-monitor-wounds-and-provide-targeted-treatment 

o Skin substitutes:  Synthetic or biological materials, such as stem cells, growth factors, or collagen, can replace damaged or lost skin tissue and promote regeneration

o Specialized electronic health record software:  https://www.nethealth.com/   

Technologies to enhance nutrition: Virtual assistants and coaches who assist in food preparation as well as automated food preparation systems.  

o Guided cooking with AI:  https://showcase.tha.de/ia-ims/guided-cooking-with-ar  

Medication Management Systems: Automated pill dispensers and reminder apps that help manage medication schedules. Examples include MedMinder and PillPack.

o MedMinder:  https://www.medminder.com/ 

o PillPack:  https://www.pillpack.com/ 

Smart Canes and Walkers:

Smart Canes: Equipped with sensors, GPS, and connectivity features, these canes can detect obstacles, provide navigation assistance, and alert caregivers in case of falls. Example: Dring Smart Cane.  https://wewalk.io/en/ 

Smart Walkers: Include features like automatic brakes, stability sensors, and navigation aids to help users move safely. Example: Scewo BRO.

Advanced Wheelchairs:

Powered and Smart Wheelchairs: Feature electric motors for easier movement, sensors to avoid obstacles, and connectivity options for remote control. Examples include the Whill Model Ci and the Permobil M3. https://whill.inc/ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/WHILL_ModelCi_Brochure_2018.pdf   

Autonomous Vehicles:

Self-Driving Cars: Emerging technology in autonomous vehicles promises to provide safe and reliable transportation without the need for a human driver. Examples include Waymo and Tesla's self-driving initiatives.

Brain Training Programs: These are specialized software programs designed to improve various cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Examples include online platforms like BrainHQ and Lumosity.

VR and AR Applications: These technologies offer immersive experiences that can stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive functions. They can be used for mental exercises, simulations, and games that promote cognitive engagement.  

1. • • Rendever:  https://www.rendever.com/product-tours