Intelligent system safeguards empty nesters in Hangzhou

An individualized security system designed for senior citizens who don't live with their children in Fuyang district, Hangzhou has proved to be effective and efficient, local media outlets reported.

The system has been installed at the homes of 100 local seniors, makes use of big data, and has worked out 341 targeted security warning scenarios for the elderly.

If the system detects fire, a gas leakage, a fall, or other emergencies, it will directly send messages, call, or send pop up notifications to the mobile phones of their guardians.

If left unanswered, backup contacts will be notified. If there is still no response, social organizations will offer 24-hour emergency services to the elderly. It should take no more than 10 minutes for people at all three levels to respond.

Granny Li has recently benefited from the system. She usually gets up at around 6 o'clock in the morning, but one day didn't show any signs of activity until 8 am. The system immediately sent out warnings to Li's daughter and she was then sent to the hospital.

Fuyang district is now home to about 167,000 people aged 60 and above, accounting for 20.08 percent of its total population. The number of empty nesters is near 10,000.

The system developed as empty nesters are often a hassle to take care of, and a talkback system powered by artificial intelligence technology will soon be upgraded.

The district is also planning to bring the system to more households, including families with left-behind children, people with disabilities, and other senior citizens in need.