April 30, 2009
TAFETA Smart Technology "Takes to the Field" with CMHC Funds 

TAFETA has been awarded $20,100 from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to launch its first official field trial of sensor-based technology. The study, entitled "Feasibility of Smart Voice Technology to Improve Support in Affordable Seniors' Housing" provides the TAFETA research team with an opportunity to install a smart fridge sensor in five units of an affordable seniors' housing complex in the Ottawa area. The fridge sensors provide verbal cues that remind occupants that the fridge door is open. This activity can be downloaded to a central computer to alert care providers and family members of activity and health status. During this one-year pilot study, the feasibility of installing multiple sensors in the homes of older adults will be assessed and the occupants' acceptance of the technology will be evaluated. Ottawa's Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) is a partner in this project and will identify the housing site for the study.