A large majority of older adults want to remain in their own homes as they age. According to AARP research, nearly 90 percent of seniors prefer to “age in place.” While that goal is understandable, it can bring challenges for both seniors and their families. Caregivers often face increasing mental, physical, and financial strain when providing senior home care.
Thanks to rapid technological advances over the past decade, aging in place has become safer and more manageable. The best technology for a senior depends on their health conditions, budget, and personal preferences. Below is a practical overview of current devices and systems that can improve safety, medication adherence, and daily living for seniors who wish to stay at home.
Personal emergency response systems
Personal emergency response systems (PERS) remain a core safety option. These wearable SOS devices—often pendants or wristbands paired with a base station—enable seniors to call for help at the push of a button. Modern PERS products vary from unmonitored units to fully monitored services with fall detection and GPS features.
Examples of different PERS options:
LogicMark’s Freedom Alert is a pendant or belt-clip button with a two-way speaker that connects the user to family, friends, or emergency services. The system typically requires a one-time purchase and has no monthly monitoring fee, though it does not include automatic fall detection.
Philips Lifeline is one of the most widely used monitored services. For a monthly fee, Lifeline provides two-way emergency communication and offers an Auto Alert fall-detection option that can automatically summon help if a fall is detected.
GreatCall Responder combines GPS-enabled wireless PERS devices with a 24/7 Urgent Response monitoring service. When the button is pressed, trained agents or emergency services can locate the user, assess the situation, and coordinate appropriate help.
Medication management
Medication adherence is a common challenge for seniors who take multiple prescriptions. Several automated medication dispensers and monitoring systems make it easier to take the right dose at the right time and notify caregivers when doses are missed.
Philips Medication Dispensing Service is a countertop unit that dispenses preloaded, sealed doses on a schedule. It provides audible and visual alerts and calls a caregiver if doses go unclaimed. The system is designed for solid medications and can remind users about liquid doses, though it does not dispense liquids.
TabSafe provides a similar dispenser but includes an internet-based, HIPAA-compliant portal where caregivers can track compliance, monitor inventory, and coordinate refills with a pharmacy. These systems reduce missed doses and help caregivers manage complex medication regimens.
Kitchen and bathroom safety
The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most common locations for accidents at home. Passive safety devices that require little or no user interaction can reduce risks in these areas.
Stove shutoff systems use motion or presence sensors to turn off a stove if no one remains nearby for a set period; these typically require professional installation. Examples include standalone automatic shutoff devices that detect unattended cooking and cut power to the range to prevent fires.
Water-flow safety products can prevent bathtub or sink overflows by automatically stopping water flow after a preset time. These devices are usually installed by a plumber and offer protection against flooding and accidental scalding.
Monitoring programs and technologies
Comprehensive home monitoring systems provide caregivers with insight into a senior’s daily routine without using cameras. Wireless sensors placed around the home track motion, door openings, appliance use, and sleep patterns. When activity deviates from established routines, the system alerts designated family members or caregivers.
BeClose is a sensor-based monitoring solution that lets caregivers view daily activity patterns through a secure interface and sends notifications if unusual behavior is detected. The system focuses on privacy by using motion and contact sensors rather than cameras.
GrandCare offers a sensor network similar to BeClose and also includes optional social and engagement features via a touchscreen unit in the senior’s home. Family members can send messages, photos, and reminders, and seniors can access games, music, and basic entertainment—helping reduce isolation while maintaining safety monitoring.
Is assistive technology the right choice?
Cost can be a barrier: many of these devices involve purchase or monthly fees, and most private insurance plans and Medicare generally do not cover long-term use of assistive-home technologies. The Department of Veterans Affairs often provides financial support for eligible veterans, and some state Medicaid waiver programs may cover personal emergency response systems or medication management tools.
Assistive technologies can greatly benefit families trying to support a senior at home, but they are not suitable in every situation. Repeated falls, wandering, or complex medical needs may indicate that a higher level of care—such as an assisted living community with memory care or a continuing care retirement community—would be safer and more appropriate.