Living independently in old age thanks to modern technology

From smoke alarms to fall detection: technologies for independent and safe living in old age will be presented in a residential unit of the "Oberland" housing cooperative in Ebersbach-Neugersdorf from August 20-22. Interested parties are cordially invited to get to know and test the devices without obligation. Admission to the events is free, but advance registration is requested.

The event is backed by the "AI4ActiveAge" project , a consortium of scientists, companies and initiatives from the region.

Its aim is to further develop existing technology based on the impressions of test users in order to enable people to live safely and independently in their own four walls.

In addition to Wohnungsbaugenossenschaft "Oberland" and Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe , various companies and initiatives from the region are involved, with Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, TQ Systems, uCore Systems and Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences in charge of scientific research.

For many people in old age, it is important to lead a self-determined life for as long as possible. But what should you do if you need help or find yourself in an emergency situation?

Nowadays, children and grandchildren often live far away and many older people live alone.

The concept of the "ageing home" promises help here:
The use of simple modern technology makes independent living safer in old age. Smoke alarms, sensors that detect falls and automatically trigger an alarm and even automatic emergency door openings for emergency services - all this is possible today.

Ebersbach-Neugersdorf will also be presenting technical aids for greater living comfort. Networked heating control or window and temperature sensors are not only of interest to older people. Modern technology can even provide entertainment and social interaction: in addition to familiar devices such as VR glasses and Playstations, visitors can also make an interactive robot cat purr.

"We are convinced that with today's possibilities of digital assistance systems, we can help people to lead a self-determined and beautiful life in their beloved home for a long time," explains Prof. Dr. Reiner Wichert from Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.