August 16, 2019
One in four Canadians will be over 65 years of age within the next 20 years. By 2063, more than 13 million Canadians will be seniors. These statistics have sparked discussions and numerous studies that have influenced the most recent national seniors’ strategy. In it, the strategy outlines four pillars; independent, productive and engaged citizens; healthy and active lives; care closer to home; and support for caregivers.
With these pillars in mind, the Baycrest Innovation Office is researching ways to use technology to improve the standard of living for older adults. Currently being piloted in the Apotex Centre is the Smart Suite – a suite equipped with the latest cutting-edge technology in aging that is curated and customized to each resident. From AI-powered voice assistants to smart toilets, each piece of technology is tailored toward the resident’s current physical and cognitive status with the goal of improving quality of life and increasing efficiencies for both the resident and their caregivers.
One of the residents currently piloting the Smart Suite is using smart motion-sensor lights to ensure that her suite is well-lit, enabling her maneuver the area from her bed to the washroom with greater independence and ease. Other technologies being piloted are geared toward providing companionship, such as the popular Joy For All pets, and offering a wider range of recreational activities.
The Baycrest Innovation Office is responsible for identifying practices, technologies and services that can be adopted internally to improve the client experience. If you or someone you know would like to get involved in the Smart Suite pilot, contact us at innovation@baycrest.org