Aging in Place Technology

Tools that make it easier to live independently and safely where we feel most at home.

Series Introduction Post: Why Words Matter in AgeTech

Definition:

Aging in place technology includes the tools, devices, and systems that help older adults live safely and comfortably in their own homes. It ranges from fall detectors and smart lighting to remote monitoring systems and medication reminders.

Why it matters:

Most people want to stay in their homes as they age, surrounded by familiar routines and communities. Technology can extend that independence by making daily life safer and more manageable. It also brings peace of mind to family members who want to stay connected and informed without being intrusive.

Example:

A motion sensor that turns on lights at night or an app that alerts a caregiver if a loved one misses a routine activity are small tools with a big impact.

What to watch:

Privacy and cost remain major barriers. The best aging in place technologies support autonomy and safety without replacing human contact. Success often depends on both — reliable human help and accessible, easy-to-use tools.

Personal note:

In my area of Northern Virginia, it can be expensive to age in place, even with community support. Not everyone can afford a high-tech smart home with all the bells and whistles. That is where both digital equity initiatives and human support come in. I have been a volunteer with Arlington Neighborhood Village for several years, and I recently joined Arlington’s Digital Equity Initiative. While the Digital Equity Initiative does not focus specifically on aging in place, its education efforts help older adults build digital literacy and confidence — the very skills that make technology an enabler for staying at home longer.

Still, the most essential technology for connecting with older adults aging in place remains simple and reliable: a phone. A call that reaches them easily, without complicated menus or settings, is often worth more than any smart home feature. True aging in place depends as much on human connection as on innovation.

Learn more:

• National Institute on Aging – Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home

• AARP – Technology for Aging in Place

• Arlington Neighborhood Village

Next up: Telehealth, the bridge between home and healthcare.