SeniorSMART™ Center of Economic Excellence

Inception:
2007

University collaborators:

University of South Carolina (fiscal agent)

Clemson University (collaborative partner)

About the CoEE:

This CoEE focuses on fostering independence for senior citizens. The Center’s work falls under three major themes: SMARTBrain™ (helping seniors maintain intellectual activity; SMARTWheels™ (promoting independent mobility outside the home for seniors); and SMARTHome™ (helping seniors maintain independent mobility inside the home).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, South Carolina's senior (over-65) population is projected to grow by 133% between 2000 and 2030. As the Baby Boomers age, such a profound demographic shift will stress the state's physical and financial infrastructure. Unless society devises new ways to promote independence for older adults, the health care system and nursing homes will soon be hard pressed to accommodate the 80-and-over population.

Collaborations for SMARTHome™ technology have begun with Lutheran Homes of S.C., Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community, and the Fraunhofer Institutes (Germany). One project involves a survey to determine seniors’ acceptance of home technology and monitoring. Three levels of test homes are being created for SMARTHome™ research; Lutheran Homes of S.C. has donated two homes for laboratory settings, while Still Hopes is partnering with USC to create research laboratories at an Innovista facility. Several projects are being conducted for the
SMARTBrain™ component on novel rehabilitative techniques for chronic stroke. One such project involves using video gaming systems to help seniors restore post-stroke movement and balance. The CoEE also has forged a SMARTWheels™ collaboration with CU‐ICAR.

Funding level:
$5 million

CoEE Endowed Chairs: