Aging-in-place: integrating architectural design and technology

The 2021 Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates that there are 55.9 million people ages 65 + residing across the fifty states. Although over 70% of people ages 55 + prefer to age-in-place and live independently, 13 million adults have difficulties living independently and need to receive assistance at home. However, only half of these homes meet the physical needs of people who choose to age-in-place. The use of technology and development of smart homes can support ageing-in-place and independent living. The current study used principles from a constructive grounded theory to analyze 67 interviews of people ages 62–92 to assess how older adults prefer to utilize technology in their homes. The results presented that nearly 85% of the participants are willing to learn and use technology in their homes when the benefits are related to their safety, health and wellbeing, daily chores, and social and emotional connection.