The population of the United States is aging. According to the census bureau those 65 and over will grow from a bit more than 40 million (14% of the population) to almost 70 million by 2030 (20% of the populations). Multiple surveys confirm that this population wants to age in place and independently, where they can have the things they need while maintain the quality of life. For them, their family, the industry and society the social and economic benefits of facilitating this are significant. Seniors live longer, enjoy a higher quality of life at a lower cost than the alternatives. Although there have been a number of research projects no project has been able to yet grow to a scale where its promise has clearly been demonstrated. This is due, in part, by much of the focus has been placed on the technology which is constantly “emerging”. While it is true that complex, invasive technology is unlikely to be successful with this population, what is clear is that little attention has been placed on the understanding of the needs and wants of the three constituencies that need to be satisfied for a successful and sustainable solution. These constituencies are:
- The resident
- The family and caregiver
- The housing management
In order to address these multidimensional factors Opterna, a US based opto-electronic global product company, brought together a diverse group of experts in the field to develop a truly workable solution. Using affordable, high-speed building infrastructure of fiber optics, machine to machine applications, design capability, coordination, and communication, Opterna has developed an extensible environment of devices that provide seniors with safety, security, and social interaction; provide family and caregivers with the information they need; and help maintain the integrity of the dwellings.
With the Rise of AI, What IP Disputes in Healthcare Are Likely to Emerge?
Munck Wilson Mandala Partner Greg Howison shared his perspective on some of the legal ramifications around AI, IP, connected devices and the data they generate, in response to emailed questions.
The initial offering is of mostly unobtrusive devices that measure activities of daily living and provide services that allow for social well-being. Initial services include:
- Sensors that report activity: door openings, refrigerator door open, stove-top left on, etc.
- Sensors in bed that measure sleep quality. Sleep wake patterns.
- Gate and fall sensors.
- Medication management support.
- Calendar management services.
- Social supports through one-way communication and two-way communication, both video and voice with easy access to family, friends and care givers.
- Games (with the ability to do cogitative testing and reporting), puzzles, voice prompts.
- Wearable health monitoring devices as needed and desired.
- Training supports for the above
It is the resident, except for specific emergencies, who decides upon who has access to data. That can be family, caregiver or trusted third party. Data may be anonymized and aggregated for research with clear information and permissions given. Multiple experiments and surveys demonstrate that people want to maintain their independence and hate to be watched. Having them comfortable that, to the extent possible, they control the what and who of information transfer is critical.
Under this construct every stakeholder gets affordable rates that they need. What is even more exciting the first projects in which this technology will be implemented are in low income housing, most likely in Cleveland and Baltimore. I am pleased to say that I and a team of experts are helping make this a reality.
