Digital Transformation in Senior Care: Shaping the Future of Elderly Health Support

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated demand for contactless services across industries, particularly in senior welfare, underscoring an urgent need for digital transformation in the senior healthcare sector. In response, patient monitoring systems are being installed in homes and rehabilitation facilities, and a wide range of digital medical products are developing. Against this backdrop, this feature article from InHandPlus delves into the current landscape and forward-looking trends within the digital healthcare space for senior care.

Smart Community Centers for Seniors

"Smart community centers" represent the evolution of senior centers, combining digital healthcare devices, smart farming, and various other tech-driven solutions. Initially piloted in Bucheon and Daejeon in 2021, the project has since expanded to approximately 25 local governments across South Korea, backed by a 30 billion KRW investment. Results have been promising—AI and mobile devices health management tools have shown significant improvements in blood pressure and frailty management, outperforming traditional in-person care. Building on these successes, 27 local governments now plan to introduce real-time video communication solutions in 1,391 smart community centers this year.

AI Call Service

The AI Call Service by SK Telecom, developed over the past five years, leverages AI speakers to provide senior care support in South Korea and the U.S. Partnering with over 100 senior support centers nationwide, this service enables wellness check-ins for elderly individuals through AI. Furthermore, if it detects phrases like “I’m in pain” or “I’m struggling,” it connects the user to a professional counselor, providing psychological support. This service not only strengthens the social safety net but also helps reduce the workload of caregivers.

InHandPlus: Leading Personalized Medication Management for Seniors

InHandPlus is at the forefront of the digital transformation in senior healthcare with its innovative AI smartwatch-based, personalized medication management solution. Through extensive nationwide pilot programs, InHandPlus has demonstrated the efficacy of its solution across various channels, including academic studies. By expanding smartwatch functionalities to track diverse life-log data, InHandPlus seamlessly combines medication reminders with integrated health data management, supporting seniors' daily health routines and contributing to enhanced safety and well-being.