Revolutionizing Healthcare with AI: The Future of Assisted Living

By Taranjeet Singh

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is taking over several industries. Now, the healthcare industry has joined the league. This technology is being used in assisted living to improve care quality and extract better health outcomes for residents.

A scoping review of AI applications in Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) systems revealed a growing trend in their deployment over the past decade. This highlights their increasing role in supporting aging populations.

AI-Driven Enhancements in Assisted Living

AI applications in the assisted living range are used for predictive analytics, health monitoring and personalized care plans. For instance, AI-powered sensors can monitor residents' movements and detect anomalies that may indicate health issues.

A research grant from the University of Massachusetts Amherst's Artificial Intelligence and Technology Center is exploring the use of AI sensors to infer how residents use space while protecting privacy.

AI-driven robots are being developed to assist with tasks such as lifting, transporting, meal delivery, and housekeeping. These robots can reduce the reliance on human labor and bring more efficiency. According to Andrew Carle, president of Carle Consulting, "AI will allow more robots to 'self-direct,' whether in assisting with lifts, wheelchair transport, meal delivery, housekeeping/maintenance, or driving."

More Productivity and Cost Reduction

AI technologies contribute to improved efficiency and cost reduction in assisted living facilities.

For example, MatrixCare's implementation of AI-driven technologies resulted in an 8% reduction in falls among over 200 long-term care communities. This saved approximately $12.9 million in savings. ​

Similarly, Cera Care, a UK-based home care provider, has developed AI-backed tools that predict and prevent hospitalizations among older and vulnerable individuals. These tools have reduced patient hospitalizations by up to 70%, which means saving the UK Government and NHS £1 million a day. In fact, Cera's AI scheduler reduces career admin time by as much as 80% and travel time by up to 50%.

Expert Insights on AI in Senior Living

Dylan Conley, chief technology officer of Lifeloop, states, “When it comes to technology in the senior living industry, AI is just getting started.”

He further added, “Naturally, we are going to see varied levels of AI adoption across senior living as operators and leaders become more comfortable with this latest wave of innovation. But the capability of AI to make lives better, to enhance resident experiences and drive operational efficiency is ultimately why it is not only gaining traction, but why it is going to have staying power.”

Dylan shared his opinions to highlight how AI applications can advance the utilization of robotics in senior living, assisting with tasks such as lifts, wheelchair transport, meal delivery, and housekeeping.

What Are the Challenges in the Elderly Industry with AI?

Benefits are discussed, but obstacles also exist in this ecosystem. There are concerns about data privacy, the potential reduction in human interaction, and the risk of technology malfunctions are prevalent.

A survey by the Pew Research Center found that 60% of Americans would be uncomfortable with healthcare providers relying on AI for their care. This is because they have concerns over data security and the depersonalization of care. ​Industry experts caution that AI can pave the path for new growth; however, it should be leveraged with appropriate guardrails.

Final Thoughts

AI-powered robots are being developed to assist with various caregiving tasks to address the shortage of aged care workers.

For instance, Japan's Waseda University unveiled AIREC, a humanoid robot capable of tasks such as repositioning patients and assisting with daily activities. Despite technical challenges, prototypes like AIREC represent significant strides toward integrating robotics into elderly care. ​

In the United States, companies like Inspiren are securing substantial investments to expand AI-driven solutions in senior living. Inspiren recently raised $35 million to scale its AI-powered technology.

The company will work towards improving production and bringing positive resident outcomes in senior care facilities.