Since 2016, more than a hundred people have participated in the study. In their flat in the Escamp neighborhood of The Hague they were placed with about sixty gadgets that would make life easier. Under the name of iZi Healthy Long Home every user was followed for a year and supported with technical questions. The effect on self-reliance, safety, quality of life and costs on care has been examined.
These gadgets were tried:
Many functions little used
The research shows that of the dozens of users, everyone benefited from the new gadgets. However, only a fraction of the available options were used. For example, a tested camera doorbell can see much more than just the person standing in front of your door. But those functions have hardly been used. The tools that were used in full can also be used for only one thing: such as an automatic floor lamp that is switched on by a sensor.
Main conclusion of the study: deliver technology that the elderly person has asked for and help with the use. Then the chance for a better life in old age is the greatest.
Special marketplace established
Alderman Parbhudayal received the examination on Tuesday at the test home. “I want everyone to get the care they need.” And this study indeed shows that the elderly who participated through the use of technology experience a better quality of life, both mentally and physically.
The alderman will be bringing the tools to the attention of the target group in various ways in the coming period. “We are going to make sure that all residents of The Hague who have a support request to live independently can easily find which technology can possibly provide a solution to their demand,” said Parbhudayal. The municipality will set up a special market place for this. “In this way, all residents of The Hague will be able to search for suitable technology for their situation themselves and with their informal caregiver or a professional and purchase it themselves.”
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