Model Home Uses Technology to Assist the Elderly

CHICAGO, Nov. 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A 2,600 foot model home unveiled today transforms the idea of aging in place by using groundbreaking technologies and design innovations that make it possible for more older adults to remain independent and at home for longer. This one-of-a-kind home is on display at McCormick Place in Chicago as part of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging's (AAHSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition from November 9-11.

The AAHSA Idea House features the best in universal design and technologies that can improve older people's quality of life while reducing health care costs, encouraging healthy behavior change, improving safety and providing caregivers with support. Most important, these features can result in better health outcomes and provide peace of mind for older adults and their loved ones.

"From sensor systems to high-tech medication dispensers to height-adjustable cabinets that lower so that people in wheelchairs can access them, technology and design have converged to make aging easier - and safer - in today's modern world," AAHSA CEO Larry Minnix said. "We are pleased to be able to bring to life a vision that can be within reach of every elder in America."

More than 90 percent of the products on display at the AAHSA Idea House are on the market today. Product highlights include:

"It's important that consumers and providers of aging services know what kind of products are out there, which is why we built this home. Whether you're looking to adapt an existing home, evaluating retirement communities or updating assisted living facilities with the latest technology, the Idea House will show you the kinds of things that will make life easier for seniors today and in the future," said Eric Krull, an associate at THW Design and the lead architect on the project.

"Numerous studies prove that seniors want to use technology, and are willing to pay for it, if it will help them remain in their homes as long as they can," said Majd Alwan, PhD, director of the Center for Aging Services Technologies. "The AAHSA Idea House gives the general public and aging-services providers a chance to see the range of technology that is available and talk with the companies that are leading the way to meet the needs of this growing market segment."

The Idea House is free and open to the public from Nov. 9-11 at McCormick Place (2301 S Lakeshore Drive) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (For more information, please visit www.aahsaconference.org.)

About AAHSA

The members of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (www.aahsa.org) help millions of individuals and their families every day through mission-driven, not-for-profit organizations dedicated to providing the services that people need, when they need them, in the place they call home. Our 5,700 member organizations, many of which have served their communities for generations, offer the continuum of aging services: adult day services, home health, community services, senior housing, assisted living residences, continuing care retirement communities and nursing homes. AAHSA's commitment is to create the future of aging services through quality people can trust.

SOURCE American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging