Aging Committee Examines Technologies That Can Improve Quality of Life and Independence for Seniors and Those with Disabilities

Statement

U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Bob Casey (D-PA), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Aging Committee, held a hearing today titled, "Aging and Disability in the 21st Century: How Technology Can Help Maintain Health and Quality of Life."

"With 10,000 Americans turning 65 every day, and one out of five Americans set to join this group by 2035, we are in the midst of a major demographic shift. As the population is aging, the need for care and support is increasing," said Senator Collins. "Advances in technology are working to bridge the "care gap,' improving function in activities of daily living, helping to manage multiple chronic conditions, reducing risk of hazards, and making homes safer for seniors."

"Assistive technology provides an opportunity for millions of individuals to live independently, improving the lives of older Americans and people with disabilities," said Senator Casey. "This is why I am working to introduce two bills to increase access to assistive technology and information about alternative communication devices to those who need it so they can be full participants in every aspect of their lives."

The hearing explored how recent advances in technology, specifically assistive technology, can help older adults and people with disabilities age in place, assist caregivers, and improve health care status and quality of life. At the hearing, representatives from local Assistive Technology offices brought technologies to display and demonstrate. Witnesses discussed an array of technology including:

Smart home remote monitoring devices;
Wearables that monitor vital signs, sleep, and physical activity;
Platforms that increase connectivity to reduce social isolation and loneliness;
Technology to reduce falls;
Personal emergency-response systems; and
Medication-management technologies

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