The latest EY Consumer Health Study reveals a strong appetite for smart homes and digital health solutions to help them age independently.
UK healthcare consumers are showing a strong interest in smart homes and digital health solutions to help them age independently.
The latest research from EY, which surveyed 4,500 consumers, including more than 700 from the UK, aged 50 and older across six markets and interviewed more than 30 health executives and ageing professionals, shows that 70% of UK respondents would likely adopt a smart home, equipped with sensors and devices to monitor and alert their healthcare team and family to potential emergencies.
The driver is a strong desire to maintain independence, with access to both private and shared spaces, as well as amenities that support accessibility.
As a result, many are open to leveraging technology to support healthy ageing: 59% reported they are moderately to extremely likely to use digital tools that collect health data – such as blood pressure readings – and share it with their healthcare team.
Additionally, 56% indicated interest in digitally enabled care models offering both virtual and in-person options. Notably, 44% said they are receptive to AI-driven technologies that analyse health data to identify potential risks and recommend appropriate treatments as they age.
“As people live longer, their expectations for ageing are changing. Our study shows that consumers want more than traditional care – they want technology-enabled solutions that help them stay independent, connected and safe at home,” said EY UK&I head of health Niamh O’Beirne.
Hospital-at-home programmes
For those who may need more than tech-assisted monitoring later in life, 65% say they would be moderately to extremely likely to consider hospital-at-home programmes – those that deliver hospital-level care at home. Their top priorities for such programmes include receiving basic support for daily living activities, medication assistance, sensors to alert their family if they have fallen, and installation of safety equipment in the home.
Health executives interviewed for the study advocate shifting from a treatment-focused model to a wellness-oriented approach. Evidence points to the importance of nutrition, socialisation, mobility and intellectual challenges in ageing well, and some professionals are pushing for cognitive screenings to become a routine part of primary care.
Despite this, the study reveals that only 24% of UK respondents participate in social clubs; 21% follow a personalised nutrition plan, 41% follow a fitness plan, and 57% undertake intellectual challenges. These gaps highlight opportunities for health organisations to improve the levers that impact healthy ageing.
“This is a clear signal for health systems and innovators to rethink ageing care and invest in models that combine digital tools with personalised support. By centring care in the home and community, health organisations have a fantastic opportunity to deliver better outcomes and experiences for consumers, their families, their budgets and society,” said O’Beirne.
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