CAST Executive Director Majd Alwan, PhD, recently joined eight other experts selected by The Hartford and the MIT AgeLab to identify the top 10 smart home technologies for homeowners over age 50. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, wireless doorbell cameras, and keyless entry made the list.
To conduct the research, the panel of leading experts on housing, aging, and technology extensively reviewed 25 technologies. They chose the top 10 that can make life easier, help with home maintenance, and enhance safety and security for mature homeowners.
“I was pleased to serve on this panel to review the top technologies for homeowners over age 50, both to identify the best devices and to promote the many ways in which currently available technology can help people thrive in the place they call home, regardless of where it is,” said Alwan.
Homeowners Do Not Equate Smart Technology with Maintenance
A related survey of homeowners found that while home maintenance is a top concern, homeowners do not think of it when considering smart home technology. Instead, they see the top benefits of smart home technology as safety and security (49%), saving energy (47%), and making day-to-day life easy and convenient (33%).
According to the survey, just over half (51%) of homeowners over age 50 either have smart home technology or are interested in buying it. Of those who do not currently have smart home technology but plan to purchase it or are interested in getting it, about half (49%) are willing to spend between $101 and $500 on it in a year.
Top 10 Technologies:
- Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Wireless doorbell cameras.
- Keyless entry.
- Automatic lighting.
- Smart water shut off valves.
- Smart home security systems.
- Smart outlets/plugs.
- Smart thermostats.
- Water and/or mold monitoring sensors.
- Smart window blinds.
Avoiding Repairs:
Some technologies can help avoid potential problems before property damage occurs and may help avoid costly repairs, including these:
- Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Smart water shut off valves.
- Smart thermostats.
- Water and mold monitoring sensors.
This recent study builds on many years of research by The Hartford Center for Mature Market Excellence focused on empowering 50+ homeowners to maintain their safety, independence, and well-being.
Learn more: https://newsroom.thehartford.com/releases/new-research-by-the-hartford-and-the-mit-agelab-reveals-top-10-smart-home-technologies-for-mature-homeowners