A council in South London is testing artificial intelligence (AI) sensors in homes to help care for vulnerable people. The goal is to help them live safely at home for longer while giving peace of mind to their families and carers.
The sensors track movement, temperature, light, and appliance use to learn daily routines. If something unusual happens, like a missed meal or a fall, the system alerts carers.
Margaret Linehan, 86, who has dementia, is one of 1,287 people using the system. She finds it helpful, saying, “It’s great, just in case I fall over or anything.”
The system has detected over 1,800 falls in the past year and alerted the Urgent Community Response Service. Margaret’s daughter-in-law, Marianne, uses an app to check on her, ensuring she is safe.
The sensors do not use cameras or microphones, protecting privacy. This trial is part of a government program using AI to improve public services and reduce costs.
Source: bbc
