SMART HOMES FOR ELDERLY SAFETY AND APPLICATION IN THAILAND: SCOPING REVIEW
Keywords:
Smart Home, Elderly Safety, Application, ThailandAbstract
The growing elderly population in Thailand, projected to reach 30% of the total population by 2030, underscores the urgent need for smart home technology to improve the safety, independence, and healthcare of older adults, especially in a society transitioning toward an aging population. Smart home technology can significantly enhance the safety and quality of life for the elderly by supporting healthcare, fall detection, environmental control, and energy efficiency. These advancements allow elderly individuals to live more independently and securely within their homes. However, the adoption of such technologies in Thailand faces several challenges, including a digital skills gap among older adults, high costs of installation and maintenance, and limited infrastructure in certain regions, which hinder widespread implementation. Countries such as Japan and Finland have pioneered the integration of smart home technology in elderly care with positive results, but still grapple with concerns over privacy and the financial burden of such innovations. In the context of Thailand, addressing these barriers through infrastructure improvements, government subsidies, and mixed-care solutions could promote greater autonomy for the elderly, ease the strain on the healthcare system, and improve overall quality of life. Furthermore, future research and development tailored to Thailand’s social and economic context are essential to ensure that smart home technology can be effectively adapted and scaled to meet the needs of the aging population. By overcoming the digital divide, reducing costs, and creating more accessible care solutions, Thailand could enhance the safety, independence, and well-being of its elderly population while also improving healthcare outcomes in the long run.
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