New "Smart" Homes for Dementia Sufferers
By ScienceDaily,Publication Date: March 14, 2009
News feature on “smart” systems that will help people with dementia live independently at home. Developed at England’s University of Bath, the systems incorporate specially developed sensor, electronics, and information-technology capabilities to closely monitor people’s movements and actions around the home. In addition to providing voice-prompts such as reminders to turn off a faucet or stove, they can directly switch lights or appliances on and off to eliminate potential dangers. Two trial systems installed in assisted-living homes in England reportedly have been operated successfully for over a year. As well as boosting quality of life for those with dementia, the systems could help reduce the burden on the families of people with the condition, as well as on professional caregivers and healthcare budgets. Researchers report the next step for the systems is to make sure they can be managed by non-technical caregivers and healthcare staff, and foresee their commercial development within five years.
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Link to text: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090304091223.htm
