Technological advancements have opened new opportunities to improve quality of life, safety, and autonomy, especially for people who are vulnerable or in need of support. From disease prevention to home safety, technology offers practical solutions for daily well-being.
- Telemedicine: Fast Access to Healthcare
Telemedicine allows people to receive medical care without having to travel, which is particularly useful for those with reduced mobility or those living in areas with limited access to specialists.
For example, individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension can share digital records with their doctor to adjust treatment without needing an in-person consultation. There are also online physiotherapy and rehabilitation services where patients follow guided exercises from home.
Additionally, remote psychological support has become increasingly important, offering accessible therapy for managing anxiety or stress without long waiting times.
- Health Monitoring Devices
Smart devices provide accurate health monitoring through sensors that measure heart rate, blood oxygen levels, or physical activity.
A key example is the detection of arrhythmias via smartwatches, which can alert the user or their family in case of an irregular heartbeat. There are also fall-detection sensors that automatically send an alert in case of an accident. Some portable monitors and biometric wristbands help track sleep quality and other key indicators.
For people with diabetes, needle-free glucose monitors allow for more comfortable and precise tracking, sending data directly to a mobile phone or doctor.
- Smart Home and Mobility Devices
Technology applied to the home improves safety and daily comfort. Many people are already familiar with telecare devices, which can alert family members or emergency services in case of danger. Motion sensors activate lights automatically to prevent falls, while smart locks allow doors to be opened without keys, making access easier for family members or caregivers. Voice assistants can also help with medical appointment reminders or managing phone calls.
Outside the home, GPS-enabled watches assist people with orientation difficulties, allowing their loved ones to track their location in real-time.
- Mobile Apps for Health and Well-being
Mobile apps help manage health, from medication reminders to personalised exercise programmes. Some guide users through physical exercises tailored to their health conditions, while others support mental well-being with relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and cognitive training.
To promote better nutrition, certain apps log daily food intake, suggest balanced menus, and warn of nutritional deficiencies.
Many apps help people stay connected with family and friends, while others offer educational and cultural content. There are even lifelong learning platforms with courses to stay mentally active.
- Prevention and Early Diagnosis
Artificial intelligence is revolutionising early disease detection by analysing medical data with unprecedented accuracy.
For example, advanced algorithms can identify patterns in X-rays or blood tests, detecting early signs of cancer or Alzheimer’s before symptoms appear.
At home, some sensors monitor changes in movement or behaviour, alerting caregivers to potential cognitive decline. There are also devices that analyse breathing during sleep to detect sleep apnoea, a condition that can have serious health consequences.
- Bridging the Digital Divide
To fully benefit from these innovations, accessibility is key. Digital literacy workshops and training programmes are helping reduce the digital divide. Increasingly, local councils and associations offer free courses on using video calls, managing online medical appointments, or setting up smart home devices.
Technology is transforming the well-being of older and/or vulnerable individuals, providing tools that enhance autonomy, safety, and disease prevention. These advancements make daily life easier and offer peace of mind to them and their families.
Photos from Freepik and Bence BOROS in Unsplash
