Using Technology to Bridge the Gap Between Generations

Technology is changing many parts of the human experience – including how we age. Mobile devices have ushered in a whole new way of communicating, creating new channels of social interaction and allowing older adults to keep in close contact with family like never before. Meanwhile, increasingly advanced medical technology is not only improving life expectancies, but also providing a better quality of life.

There are some very clear, scientifically proven advantages of using technology to reduce social isolation. For example, a recent study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that healthy and mildly cognitively impaired people over the age of 70 saw significant improvements to their cognitive skills after six weeks of daily face-to-face online conversations.

Here at Connected Life, we’re working on innovative solutions carefully designed to provide older adults with the support they need to live independently, while keeping families connected regardless of where they are physically located.

Building stronger relationships for greater peace of mind

It goes without saying that the family dynamic changes as we age. Whether an older adult is living independently, with their children or in an assisted living environment, children want to know that their parents are safe, happy and healthy.

Modern technology has facilitated this to a certain extent. Social media platforms, video calling and text messaging offer cross-generational communication options like never before. And it’s clear that people of all ages are reaping the benefits. Indeed, more than 4 in 10 (42 percent) senior citizens in Singapore over the age of 60 are active Internet users, according to figures collated by the Infocomm Media Development Authority.

At the same time, however, older adults are often self-conscious of being perceived as a burden, and try to avoid bothering their children with their concerns – some of which may be valid issues that could directly impact their health and wellbeing.

That’s the gap we’re aiming to bridge. Through a family of smart sensors that make use of state of the art technology, Connected Life helps you monitor your movements and sleep patterns and relay this information back to your family to give your loved ones the reassurance that you’re healthy and safe.

It’s important to note that this technology is not only for those with disabilities or ailments that may require a higher level of attention. It’s also for fit and healthy older adults who are mindful of their own wellbeing and want a simple, effective and non invasive way to build a stronger relationship with their family.

Leveraging technology to maintain health and independence

Regardless of age, everybody wants to maintain their independence for as long as reasonably possible. Technology is facilitating this in a variety of ways, as smart devices and sensors become more adept at monitoring a person’s health and wellbeing.

Connected Life is committed to making the home a safer place. Our system of smart sensors analyze your movements and day to day activities, and can detect events that may require attention. When something goes wrong – say, you slip and fall, or your sleeping pattern changes significantly – the system will let you and your loved ones know, thereby providing your family with the information you need to make an informed decision regarding your health and wellbeing. This provides you with the support you need to continue living independently and enjoying life. It also creates a continuous touch point for family members who don’t live nearby and may be unable to contact you as often as they would like to.

Technology is changing the way we age. Here at Connected Life, we’re proud to play small role in this evolution and empower older adults to live independently and safely while strengthening relationships with family across distances.