According to the US Census the Baby Boomers began turning 65 in 2011 and are now driving growth at the older ages of the population. By 2029, when all of the baby boomers will be 65 years and over, more than 20 percent of the total U.S. population will be over the age of 65. These statistics create an opportunity for “aging in place” to become the new smartest trend.
Everyday there are new technological advances. It is rapidly becoming infused in the older generations day- to day lives whether they have accepted it or not. Changing the negative stigma attached to technology will be a challenge for the older generation.
Internet of Things is allowing us to transform our houses into “smart houses” sensing where we go, telling us when to take our medicine, and reporting and monitoring results in order to see changes in behavior. This list goes on and on of the advances that are at our fingertips.
The hardest part is tackling the stigma created behind older generations using technology. The immediate reaction of this generation is to frown upon technology and become very resistant to learning any type of new technology. However, this generation needs to accept that technology is here to help, not to make life more difficult. As this generation ages they must rely on technology to assist them in being able to stay at home longer. Technology is becoming an asset as opposed to a holdback.
The Baby Boomer generation needs to warmly welcome smart housing into their homes. Smart housing is changing the way aging in place has been in the past and will transform independent in home living in the near future. Embrace the advances in technology and don’t let the negative stigma keep you from reaping the benefits from smart home technologies.
