NEW ORLEANS – A virtual reality platform allowing seniors to travel to their favorite destination; telemedicine technology empowering patients to connect with their caregivers without ever leaving their home; and a variety of voice-activated, hands-free devices that make life easier, without the worry and complexity of controls and switches, were a few of the futuristic devices showcased at the recent “Smart Home” experience, hosted by Cox Communications and The Standard at South Market. A recap of the event was provided in a press release.
Powered by Cox’s broadband network and its 1 gigabit residential internet service, G1GABLAST, the New Orleans Smart Home, “Cox Connected Independence,” featured more than 60 internet connected devices that are helping seniors live independently at home.
“Almost 90 percent of adults over the age of 65 say they prefer growing old in their home, according to AARP studies,” says Anthony Pope, Cox Communications senior vice president and region manager. “Smart home technology powered by a strong internet connection can help many families avoid the wrenching decision to move an aging parent to an assisted living facility, while providing peace of mind to caregivers.”
“We’re thrilled to host this event at The Standard at South Market,” says Matt Schwartz, co-CEO for The Domain Companies, The Standard’s developers. “The Standard features residences for people who want to enjoy a convenient, luxurious, accessible life in Downtown New Orleans. This has been a wonderful opportunity to highlight the building’s benefits with a cutting-edge partner like Cox Communications.”
Some of the devices featured in the home included an automatic pill dispenser; a Clarity P300 Handset Landline Telephone that makes sound easier to understand; a garbage can that also creates shopping lists; an electronic pet feeder; an electronic fork that tracks eating habits; and a Joy for All orange tabby cat.
In addition to the wide selection of internet-connected tech, the experience also featured national and New Orleans-based senior living innovators, businesses and experts, including:
• CableLabs, whose powerful innovation engine develops life-altering technologies that move communities and industries toward more connected tomorrows
• Rendever VR, whose reality platform helps seniors combat isolation and depression by allowing them to “travel” to their favorite destinations or relive and reconnect with some of their favorite memories
• Trapollo, whose telemedicine services enable doctors to connect with patients in the home
• WiSAT, a wheelchair, in-seat activity tracker. With WiSAT, a thin sensor designed to fit under a wheelchair cushion, gives users data that replaces missing sensory information, and better informs and reminds caregivers when to provide assistance.
• Chef Toya Boudy, local New Orleans food blogger and chef, demonstrated smart kitchen devices including a WiFi slow cooker and sous vide while cooking-up some New Orleans favorites
• Golf pro Brian Manzella of Trackman Golf analyzed guests’ golf swings via 3D measurement technology on The Standard’s third floor terrace
• Cox products and services including, Contour and the latest in Homelife automation were also demonstrated including smart window and door sensors, smart door locks, thermostats, light bulbs and more
Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet, telephone and home security and automation services over its own nationwide IP network.
