Residents at a well-being scheme for the over 55s in Scarborough are among the first to have their homes fitted with smart sensor technology designed to support independent living.

A pilot scheme launched by BT and Home Group, has seen the apartments of 12 residents at Scarborough’s Webb Ellis Court site, equipped with a range of smart sensors providing data on activities to provide improved safety support.

Data linked to electrical appliances like TVs, kettles and fridges using smart plugs, as well as fitted to key access points across homes including doors, will be used to help map the routines of residents and automatically identify changes which could indicate illness or injury and allow for carers to make early interventions to allow residents to live more comfortably and remain independent for longer. 

Professor Sultan Mahmud, healthcare director for BT’s Enterprise unit, said: “Technology has the power to make independent living easier for people, whilst also allowing loved ones to know their nearest and dearest are safe.

“This trial allows us to demonstrate just how much impact some small interventions can make on the lives of those living in supported accommodation, and the potential reductions in the costs of care and the pressure on the NHS.

“Technology has already transformed the way we live our lives and the deployment of new technology like this can help take how we care for people to the next level.”

The technology trial is running for six months with the aim of identifying how proactive interventions can cut risk and improve comfort for those living in supported accommodation.

The trial with Home Group is closely linked to BT’s development of Connected Health solutions – a key commitment outlined in its Charter for customers, including health and social care organisations, and designed to lead to more positive outcomes for both patients and staff working in the industry.