‘SmartHome’ Technology Gives First Peek Into Plans of Helping Seniors and Disabled

By Jewell Washington
Published: September 12, 2008

SmartHome technology developers were in Columbia Friday morning to unveil ground-breaking technology that will help senior citizens.

The project’s leader, Victor Hirth, showed business and community leaders the computer-sensor technology.

“This is a possiblity of having something that could help prevent falls as well as detect diseases beforer people start feeling really bad or sick,“ said Hirth.

Interested older adults would first have to undergo a physical test before getting the technology installed in their homes. Based on the results, developers would install the computer system throughout the home. SmartHome uses sensors on home walls, floors, and furniture that connects to a computer. It does not require people to wear monitors or buttons.  The sensors send alert signals of falls, medication reminders, and even early disease detections, like arthritis, back to a centralized computer.

Developers said the sensors are affordable and easy to install. They haven’t set specific prices yet to fully install a home, but did say the technology uses sensors priced around $80. Developers partnered with the University of South Carolina and Palmetto Health to test and design the technology. Some state assistance will also be available to help cover costs for lower-income families.

Hirth said looking at benefits to the state is way more important than the cost of the technology. He feels it will give senior citizens and the disabled more independence. He also said SmartHome technology will remove some responsibilities off of family members, care-takers, and assisted-living facilities.

“South Carolina has one of the fifth fastest growing older populations of all states in the country so the demand and the need is certainly there…it’s up to us to get it out there,“ said Hirth.

Developers say the SmartHome technology should be on the market by next fall.

Reach Washington at 803.254.2274