Aging in place the choice to remain in your own home as you grow older is the preference of the vast majority of older adults. A 2023 AARP survey found that 77% of adults over 50 want to stay in their current homes as they age. Smart home technology has made this more achievable than ever.
1. Hands-Free Video Calling System
A dedicated video calling device with auto-answer capability is arguably the single most impactful smart home addition for an elderly person living alone. Unlike general-purpose tablets or smartphones, purpose-built systems answer calls automatically no buttons to press. Your parent simply sees your face on screen. This transforms video calling from an occasional, effortful event into something as natural as having family in the room. Price range: £30£80/month for managed solutions.
2. Smart Speaker with Voice Assistant
Amazon Echo, Google Nest, and Apple HomePod offer voice-controlled assistance that can be genuinely useful. Being able to say “Alexa, call my daughter” without navigating a smartphone removes a significant barrier. Smart speakers can control other smart home devices by voice, set medication reminders, play music, and answer questions. Price range: £35£100.
3. Smart Medication Dispenser
Medication non-adherence contributes to an estimated 10% of hospitalisations in the UK. A smart medication dispenser pre-loads doses and alerts the user when it is time to take them. More advanced models connect to a smartphone app and alert family members if a dose is missed. Price range: £30£60/month for managed services.
4. Medical Alert System with Fall Detection
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults over 65. A medical alert system allows someone who has fallen to summon help with a single button press. Newer models add automatic fall detection via accelerometer and gyroscope data. GPS-enabled models work outside the home too. Price range: £20£50/month for monitored services.
5. Smart Video Doorbell
A video doorbell lets someone see and speak to visitors without going to the door. Family members can monitor the doorbell remotely, receiving an alert when someone arrives. This is particularly valuable for older adults who may be targeted by doorstep scammers. Price range: £80£250 upfront.
6. Smart Lighting with Motion Sensors
Trips and falls at night are a major risk for older adults. Motion-activated night lights along key routes dramatically reduce this risk. Smart bulbs can also be programmed to adjust throughout the day, brightening gradually in the morning and dimming in the evening. Price range: £15£50 per bulb or sensor system.
7. Smart Smoke and CO Detector
Smart detectors like Nest Protect send an alert to a connected smartphone the moment smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. They speak a warning aloud rather than simply beeping, and include monthly self-testing. Price range: £100£150.
8. GPS Tracker for Wandering
For families caring for someone with dementia, a GPS tracker provides a safety net without restricting freedom. Discreet wearable trackers allow family to see a loved one’s real-time location and receive an alert if they leave a designated safe area. Price range: £30£100 device, plus £10£20/month subscription.
9. Remote Health Monitoring Devices
Smart blood pressure monitors, connected weight scales, and pulse oximeters can sync data directly to a smartphone app and share readings with family members or healthcare providers. Some platforms aggregate readings and flag trends that warrant medical attention. Price range: £30£80 per device.
10. Accessible Tablet or Simplified Smartphone
Apple iPads offer Accessibility Settings that can transform the experience: larger text and icons, a simplified home screen, and AssistiveTouch for those with limited dexterity. Dedicated senior-oriented devices like the Doro range offer large buttons and prominent emergency call features built in from the start. Price range: £50£300.
11. Smart Thermostat
Older adults are more physiologically vulnerable to both cold and heat. A smart thermostat ensures the home stays within a safe temperature range and can be controlled remotely by family members. Systems like Hive or Nest are compatible with voice assistants. Price range: £100£200 device, plus professional installation.