Wednesday 11 October 2017

Older people smarten up to new energy tech

Older people smarten up to new energy tech

A third of people older than 60 years are either interested in buying a smart device to connect energy systems in their home or already own one.

That's according to a new survey from Centrica, which suggests demand for Internet of Things (IoT) technologies among pensioners and the elderly is being driven by the desire for independent living and a better quality of life.

More than half of over-60s who are already using connected heating, lights and security systems use a smartphone to control their devices.

Nearly a fifth of the 693 respondents think the technology can improve their lives, with more than a tenth saying it empowers them to look after themselves and their homes better.

Centrica aims to get more old people involved with smart technology - it is offering a prize of £100,000 to innovators that can help solve living problems faced by the elderly.

Sam Salisbury, Investment Principal at Centrica Innovations, said: "Age is not a barrier to adopting technology.

"More needs to be done to engage over-60s and to develop tech solutions that meet their living needs and ambitions."

Written by

Bruna Pinhoni

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