Based on:
Wilcox, L., Fields, J. M., & Lee, M. K. (2023).
Remote Monitoring Technologies to Support Aging in Place: A Review of Recent Studies.
Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, 9, 23337214231193823. PMC10416066
The Big Picture
As the population ages, more older adults express a strong desire to stay in their homes and communities as they grow older — a concept known as aging in place.
But this goal often comes with major challenges: declining health, safety concerns, and limited caregiver support.
This peer-reviewed article explores how remote monitoring technologies can help bridge that gap — offering caregivers and health providers real-time information without constant in-person supervision.
It asks a critical question:
Can technology help us age where we want to — safely and independently — without sacrificing care?
What the Study Looked At
The authors conducted a review of 58 studies published between 2017 and 2022 that evaluated remote health monitoring tools designed to support older adults aging in place.
These tools included:
- Simple motion sensors and wearable devices
- Smart-home systems tracking daily activity, medication use, and vital signs
- AI-based platforms that interpreted behavioral patterns
The review focused on:
- Types of technology used
- Settings (e.g., home, assisted living)
- Outcomes measured (e.g., safety, caregiver relief)
- Barriers to implementation (e.g., cost, complexity, privacy)
Key Findings
- Improved Safety and Well-Being
Many technologies reduced fall risk, enabled early emergency detection, and supported more proactive care — improving quality of life for both seniors and caregivers. - Caregiver Support
Tools provided relief by allowing caregivers to monitor loved ones remotely, receive alerts, and coordinate more easily with healthcare professionals. - Wide Variability
Outcomes varied. Systems that were easy to use, customizable, and minimally invasive performed best. - Adoption Barriers Exist
Many older adults needed help setting up and maintaining the technology. Concerns around trust and privacy — especially with cameras — were frequent. - The Human Element Remains Essential
Tech worked best when it empowered caregivers, not replaced them. Successful systems blended human insight with smart, quiet assistance.
A Broader Takeaway
This review reinforces a key truth:
Technology, when thoughtfully designed and sensitively implemented, becomes a partner in care — not a substitute.
It offers:
- A quiet layer of protection
- Early insights that prevent crisis
- Reassurance for caregivers to rest and recharge
For families navigating the complexities of aging in place, remote monitoring can become a quiet hero — helping catch subtle changes, spark better conversations, and give everyone more peace of mind.
Caregiver Support Resources
If you’re a caregiver or planning for the future, here are some trusted organizations to explore:
- Family Caregivers of British Columbia (FCBC)
Coaching, wellness resources, and caregiver support groups. - HealthLink BC – Seniors’ Health
Services and referrals for elder care across provinces. - Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Mental health support, burnout prevention, and community care tools.
Final Thoughts
We don’t often think of technology as something that can care.
But research like this shows that when it’s done right — when it’s built to listen, not just record — it can be a powerful ally in our most human moments.
If you’re exploring how to support someone aging at home, ask yourself:
What kind of insights would make you feel more confident?
What would help you sleep better at night?
The answers might already exist — not in the form of more appointments,
but in tools that help notice what matters.
