Impact of Smart Home Technologies on Elderly Care: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract: As the world's population ages, smart home technologies are increasingly seen as critical tools for improving aged care, particularly for those who live independently. This research inspects the impact of smart home technologies—such as wearable health monitors, motion sensors, voiceactivated assistants, and automated medication dispensers—on the safety, health, and overall well-being of elders. By analyzing the capabilities of these devices in fall detection, chronic disease management, emergency response, and social engagement, the study assess the effectiveness in supporting aging in place, reducing healthcare costs, and decreasing caregiver burden. Additionally, it explores the barriers for adopting, including privacy issues, data securities, and the digital divide among elderly population. Through a mixed-method approach which is a combination of qualitative interviews with elderly individuals and caregivers and quantitative analysis of health and safety outcomes, this paper provides a thorough investigating the potential of smart home technologies in elderly care. The findings highlight both the opportunities and challenges of implementing these digital technologies, suggesting that while they offer significant benefits, a customized, all-encompassing strategy is necessary to optimize their influence.