Older adults aged 65 and older are increasingly adopting smart-home devices, telehealth services, and other digital tools to support independent living [1, 2].

This shift is significant because it alters the traditional care model for aging populations. By integrating technology into their daily routines, seniors can improve home safety and ease the concerns of their caregivers while avoiding premature moves to assisted living facilities [1, 3].

In the U.S., the adoption of digital health services has seen a notable surge. Between 2021 and 2023, Medicare-insured adults aged 65 and older averaged about 60 million telehealth visits annually [2]. Of those visits, approximately 31 million were for mental health services, while 29 million covered other medical needs [2].

Beyond healthcare, smart-home innovations are becoming more common. Research conducted in Spain and the U.S. indicates that lifestyle factors often predict a senior's willingness to embrace these innovations [2]. In the Bay Area, community classes have been established to help bridge the technology gap for older residents [4].

These tools range from automated safety sensors to communication platforms. The goal is to broaden living options and provide a safety net that allows older adults to remain in their own homes longer [1, 3]. This trend reflects a broader movement toward technology-enabled aging, where digital interventions are used to monitor health and safety in real time [3].

“Older adults are increasingly adopting smart-home devices, telehealth services, and other digital tools.”

The rapid adoption of telehealth and smart-home tech suggests a structural shift in geriatric care. As the 'baby boomer' generation ages, the reliance on digital infrastructure may reduce the burden on physical healthcare facilities and professional caregivers, provided that the digital divide is addressed through community education.