The UK is experiencing an elderly care crisis: Over 3.3 million people aged 65 years and older live alone and need ongoing monitoring to make living independently safe, but the NHS is overburdened and around-the-clock carers at home are expensive. There is an urgent need for nationwide solutions to enable seniors to receive healthcare in the most effective and tenable way possible. The Internet of Things (IoT) offers digital, scalable, and sustainable technologies that ease the strain on senior healthcare systems with tailored IoT in elderly care solutions that improve quality of life, provide remote patient monitoring (RPM) tools, and reduce the workload of personal caregivers.

At Ignitec, we’re proud of the positive impact of the wearable healthcare devices and assistive technologies we’ve designed on people’s lives. Our in-house capabilities and multi-talented team enable us to circumvent the many challenges of getting cutting-edge technologies to market quickly and on budget without compromising on quality and efficacy. Contact us for a confidential consultation.

Related services

The demand for tech-enabled care & the IoT solutions supplying it

Tech-enabled care (TEC) or caretech refers to using technology to help monitor and manage individuals at risk and help them lead longer, healthier and more independent lifestyles. The type of care that people using these technologies can benefit from include:

• Improved safety outside the home.
• Fall detection.
• Reduced risk of intruders.
• Faster response for emergency help.
• Prompts and reminders for medication.
• Improved living conditions, e.g. reduced risk of accidental flooding, smoke and dangerous gas detection.
• Improved social connectivity.

IoT in healthcare is the backbone that makes these solutions and the level of care they provide possible: 

• A GPS-enabled personal emergency response system (PERS) allows caregivers and family members to locate an older person in real time, providing peace of mind if the person is lost or disoriented.
• Wearable devices provide health monitoring (e.g. for people with cardiac or respiratory conditions) and alerts requiring an emergency response.
• Smart home security systems integrate IoT sensors to monitor and secure the home environment.
• Environmental monitoring devices to detect changes in atmospheric conditions
• AI and Machine Learning help to predict health issues, provide personalised healthcare, and optimise care plans.
• Telehealth applications enable remote consultations and monitoring, reducing unnecessary hospital/clinic visits.
• Voice-activated assistants and assistive robots that help with daily tasks and provide companionship.
• Predictive Analytics: Using big data and AI to predict health issues before they become critical.
• Augmented Reality (AR) applications for physical therapy and cognitive training

Is the IoT in elderly care market growing?

Tech-enabled care provides effective solutions for anyone at home who may be at risk and needs a bit more support. Assistive technologies aren’t restricted to elderly people and can include individuals living with and trying to manage long-term conditions, individuals with mental health problems or learning difficulties, and patients recently discharged from hospital. 

A large and diverse group of people at risk and in need of digital solutions helps to explain IoT in healthcare’s rapid market growth: The global IoT in healthcare market size was valued at USD 45.97 billion in 2023 and is projected to surpass around USD 305.55 billion by 2032. Market growth is driven by:

• The IoT device efficiently collects and shares vital information and healthcare data that can be instantly transmitted to healthcare providers and caregivers, enabling timely and informed decision-making.
• Personalisable technologies that can be tailored to fit individual profiles.
• An increasing global elderly population necessitates improved healthcare solutions.
• Continuous innovation makes tech solutions more affordable and accessible.
• The ability to reduce the cost of healthcare by minimising hospital visits and enabling remote monitoring.
• Increased awareness regarding the benefits of IoT in elderly care.

The challenges of integrating IoT in healthcare solutions for elderly people

Integrating IoT in healthcare solutions for elderly people presents several challenges, but there are also innovative solutions to address them:

1. Privacy and Security Concerns: IoT devices collect and transmit sensitive health data, which can be vulnerable to cyberattacks and unauthorised access.

Solutions:

• Implement robust encryption protocols to protect data during transmission and storage.
• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure only authorised individuals can access the data.
• Ensure IoT devices receive timely security updates to protect against new threats.
• Adhere to data protection regulations to ensure robust privacy and security measures.

2. Usability and Accessibility: Many elderly individuals may find using and understanding IoT devices difficult, leading to reluctance or improper use.

Solutions:

• Design user-centred devices with simple, intuitive interfaces and large, easy-to-read displays.
• Integrate voice-activated features using virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
• Provide training sessions and continuous support to help elderly users become comfortable with the technology.
• Customise devices and applications to suit individual needs and preferences, making them more relatable and easier to use.
• Introduce technology gradually, starting with simpler devices and slowly incorporating more advanced features.
• Share success stories and testimonials from peers to build trust and acceptance.

3. Cost and Affordability: The initial cost of IoT devices and ongoing subscription fees can be a barrier for many elderly individuals and their families.

Solutions:

• Provide flexible payment options, such as monthly subscriptions, to spread out the cost over time.
• Highlight the long-term cost savings from reduced healthcare expenses and hospital visits to justify the initial investment.
• Encourage the development and use of open-source IoT solutions that can lower costs.

4. Reliability and Maintenance: IoT devices require regular maintenance, updates, and reliable connectivity, which can be challenging for elderly users.

Solutions:

• Implement remote monitoring and maintenance services to ensure devices function correctly and receive necessary updates.
• Provide backup power sources and alternative connectivity options to ensure continuous operation during outages.
• Design devices to be durable and low-maintenance, reducing the need for frequent interventions.
• Establish local support centres or partnerships with service providers to offer prompt assistance.

IoT enhances the quality of life – for all

While IoT has numerous user benefits for older adults, it also helps to reduce the worry and anxiety of those who want to support their wish to live independently and safely – such as their family members and caregivers. In addition, it relieves overburdened healthcare systems and overworked healthcare providers.

By integrating IoT in elderly care, we transform how we approach ageing and healthcare. This results in better health outcomes, enhanced quality of life, improved safety, and a sustainable framework that empowers an older generation to continue enjoying their independence.

Call us to collaborate with an expert in designing assistive technologies and IoT healthcare products that have a positive impact – without breaking the bank!