As the world experiences a boom in aging, particularly in countries like China where traditional family-based care is prevalent, a technological revolution in elder care is underway, according to health and aged care experts from Flinders University. In a recently published article in Frontiers in Public Health, the authors outline the immense potential for user-friendly, customized wearable devices, robotic assistants, and sensors to enhance the independence and well-being of elderly individuals who desire to "grow old gracefully" in the comfort of their own homes.
Associate Professor Angie Shafei, Dean of Business at Flinders University, emphasizes the extensive collaboration throughout the region in examining older adult care and health service management. "As the traditional family-based care models become unsustainable, China is pioneering new strategies in health and aged-care management, including to suit the cultural and accessibility needs of dozens of distinct ethnic groups in the country," Shafei explains.
The innovative technologies for older adult care extend beyond wearable devices and sensors, encompassing virtual support groups, video-conferencing, telehealth, electronic health records, and mobility and cognitive support technologies such as rehabilitation or service robots. Dr. Madhan Balasubramanian, Senior Lecturer in Health and Aged Care Management at Flinders University and co-author of the article, stresses the importance of creating solutions that resonate with older adult preferences to accelerate the adoption of these potentially life-changing technologies. Comprehensive training is also crucial to ease the transition and bridge the digital divide.
China, with more than 260 million people aged 60 and above, faces significant demographic changes that necessitate innovative solutions. "The potential for innovation is immense, with the need to address significant demographic changes in China, which has more than 260 million people aged 60 and above," says Dr. Balasubramanian, from the College of Business, Government and Law. "For smart homes and so-called 'gerontechnologies' to truly revolutionize elder care, we need more than just gadgets. We need strong policies, robust infrastructure and research that bridges the digital divide."
Across the Asia and Pacific regions, approximately 1 in 7 people are aged 60 years or older, and projections indicate that by 2050, this age group will comprise 1 in 4 people. The Asian Development Bank reports that the demographic transition to old age will occur even more rapidly in countries such as the People's Republic of China, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, with significant implications for health systems, as well as social and economic consequences.
While improvements in public health and rapid medical advancements contribute to increased life expectancy, the rapidly aging population presents profound challenges and complex consequences for health systems. Older adults often present with multiple chronic conditions, accompanied by an increased demand for health care services, which in turn contributes to increased health system costs. For example, in Australia, the projected health expenditure per person (older adults) is expected to rise from A$3250 in 2028–19 to $3970 in 2031–32 and reach $8700 in 2060–61.
The World Health Organization defines healthy aging as "developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age." As countries grapple with the challenges of an aging population, the adoption of smart homes and innovative technologies offers a promising solution to enhance the independence, well-being, and quality of life of older adults. However, the successful implementation of these technologies requires not only the development of user-friendly devices but also strong policies, robust infrastructure, and research that bridges the digital divide.
