In South London, artificial intelligence (AI) sensors are being deployed within the residences of at-risk individuals to enhance their caregiving.
Sutton Council stated that this initiative aims to create a safety framework for vulnerable inhabitants, enabling them to stay in their homes longer while providing reassurance to their families and caregivers.
These sensors monitor movement, temperature, lighting, and the functioning of various appliances, including kettles and microwaves, to establish routine behaviors and notify caregivers when assistance is required.
Margaret Linehan, an 86-year-old living with dementia, is one of the 1,287 residents in Sutton benefiting from this technology-integrated care system, and she expresses her satisfaction with it.
“It’s meant for situations like if I fall or something. It’s wonderful,” she remarked.
The software assesses the collected data to spot any variations from set behavior patterns.
When the system identifies a anomaly, such as a missed meal, a forgotten drink, an open door for too long, or a fall, it promptly alerts the relevant parties.
Bradley Coupar, a manager specializing in tech-enabled social care, noted that individuals’ routines are “learned over time,” which allows the sensors to detect “when something is declining or if a significant event occurs, like a fall.”
In the last year alone, the system has recorded over 1,800 falls, which were then referred to the Urgent Community Response Service, according to the council.
Margaret’s daughter-in-law, Marianne Linehan, utilizes a connected app to receive notifications and monitor her movements.
“I can check in the mornings and see her movements from the night, ensuring that she’s up and about, not on the floor or in any serious trouble,” she explained.
On one occasion, when Margaret felt like having a cup of tea and a biscuit at 2:00 AM, her son reached out to check on her.
Margaret recalled how her son asked, “Do you realize what time it is?”
To which she responded, “I didn’t think about the time, I just wanted a cup of tea and a biscuit.”
The council emphasized that the AI equipment does not use cameras or microphones, thus safeguarding users’ privacy.
Having been in operation for two years, this program has been recognized by the government as an exemplary model of integrating AI into public services as a means of cost savings.
