Aging in place is becoming more common, but it hasn’t gotten much safer. One company that is tackling this challenge is safe-living, which utilizes radar-based technology to detect human motion and provide peace of mind to family caregivers of seniors. The device aims to allow seniors to stay in their homes for as long as possible by automatically calling for help in situations of helplessness.
Smart home device for seniors
The safe-living device is designed specifically for seniors who live alone or with minimal assistance. It consists of a custom radar system that can detect even the tiniest movements, up to a tenth of a millimeter. This radar system works by sending out signals and receiving the reflections, similar to how a bat uses echolocation. The device is capable of differentiating between human motion and motion caused by pets, ensuring accurate detection.
The device operates by creating a mesh network with other devices in the home, allowing them to communicate and understand the movement patterns of the senior. This network is powered by artificial intelligence, which analyzes the data collected by the radar system and identifies any variances or potential concerns. It can detect situations that may indicate helplessness or danger, such as falls or prolonged periods of inactivity.
Radar-based device detects human motion
The technology behind safe-living relies on radio waves to sense even the slightest movements within a room, detecting motion patterns and analyzing them using artificial intelligence (AI) models. The AI continuously monitors motion patterns and alerts caregivers when there is a significant change or variance from the normal pattern.
The device not only detects motion but also has the capability to sense vital signs. This means that it can determine if someone is simply sitting or lying down, even if they are not actively moving. This feature allows the device to detect situations of immobility, such as after a fall, and automatically call for help.
In case of a potential emergency, the device automatically calls for help. However, there is a grace period of 15 minutes during which the user can confirm their well-being and cancel the alert. If no confirmation is received within the grace period, the configured alert and contact will be informed about the situation. For individuals who may not be familiar with smartphones, the device can work without a smartphone and offers alternative methods of alerting, such as a phone call to a landline to check on the individual’s well-being.
In addition to the automated alerts, the safe-living device also includes a digital SOS button within its mobile app. This button allows users to trigger an alert in case of an emergency. For example, if a senior is walking outside and suddenly feels unwell, they can simply click on the SOS button on the app, and an alert will be sent to their family members. The alert includes the real-time location of the person, ensuring that help can be quickly dispatched if needed.
A mobile app for peace of mind
One of the key features of the safe-living device is its mobile app, which allows family members to stay connected and monitor the well-being of their loved ones. The app provides unlimited user access, allowing multiple family members to be connected to the device. This feature is particularly valuable for family members who live far away from their senior loved ones. For example, a son living two and a half hours away can use the app to check on his retired parents. He can see if they are at home and capable of moving, providing peace of mind and reassurance.
In addition to monitoring the well-being of seniors, the app also includes a burglary alarm feature. This allows seniors to activate the alarm when they go on holiday, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Intelligent nightlight with emergency alert
One of the key features of the safe-living device is its intelligent nightlight functionality. This feature aims to address the issue of falls that often occur at night when seniors get up to go to the bathroom in the dark. The device is equipped with LED components in its user interface (UI), which act as a nightlight that automatically lights up when the user gets up at night. This helps seniors orient themselves in the dark and reduces the risk of falls.
The brightness of the LED components is described as being similar to the nightlights found in hotels. It is bright enough to provide sufficient illumination for seniors to navigate their surroundings in the dark. This feature is especially useful for seniors who have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.
Conclusion: A small device to make seniors healthier and safer
The safe-living device is easy to install, requiring no configuration or complex setup. It is a plug-and-play system that can be installed by the user themselves. The device is available for purchase online and comes with a one-time cost of $249. Additionally, there is a subscription plan available for $12 per month, which provides access to the device’s full range of functionalities. You can buy yours on the company’s website.
Overall, the safe-living device offers a comprehensive solution for ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors living independently. Its radar-based technology, AI analysis, and mobile app functionality make it a valuable tool for family caregivers. With its easy installation and affordable pricing, the safe-living device aims to provide a solution that is accessible to all, offering peace of mind and enhancing the quality of life for seniors and their families.
Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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