Science & Technology
Experts reveal growing public support for use of AI in elderly care as innovative care service launched
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A combination of AI and Big Data is transforming elderly care from reactive to proactive, and Taking Care, the UK’s leading personal alarm provider, is at the forefront of this innovation.
Taking Care has unveiled ActiveAlert, an innovative technology that acts as an early warning system to alert family members about potential health concerns among older adults. This service helps older adults remain independent at home for longer, addressing caregiving challenges and aligning with growing public acceptance of technology in elderly care.
Personal alarms help older people live independently and provide a way to call for help in an emergency. ActiveAlert uses insights from 30 years of alarm call data to monitor how and when the personal alarms are used. By detecting changes in usage patterns, the ActiveAlert algorithm identifies potential health and wellbeing concerns among older adults who rely on the alarms.
The technology acts as an early warning system by triggering a wellbeing check-in call when it detects changes in the frequency, timing, or nature of alarm calls. These changes may indicate a shift in the user’s condition or overall wellbeing.
ActiveAlert has been developed as part of Taking Care’s broader commitment to revolutionise its approach by establishing a proactive approach to elderly care, and a mindset shift away from reactively addressing an older adult’s care plan after their health or independence declines.
Recent research commissioned by Taking Care highlights growing concerns about elderly care and an increasing openness to technological solutions:[1]
- Only 26% of people say they have the time to provide around-the-clock care for their older relatives.
- 64% are concerned about their older relatives living alone.
- 76% would support the use of AI if it enhances health and independence for older adults.
- 72% believe innovations in technology can truly support health and wellbeing.
Devised to respond to the UK’s ageing population, ActiveAlert can alert potential concerns or red flags to families before emergency scenarios arise, allowing carers and family members to proactively put the steps in place to support their older relatives and manage health and frailty, reducing health service dependence and supporting independence in later life.
With more than 3.2m people aged 80 and above in the UK [2] and insights from the NHS showing that one in two of these will likely have at least one fall this year alone [3], reactive elderly care could be costing the health service in excess of £350m a year, especially when A&E triage and overnight hospital stays are required.[4]
Taking Care’s new ActiveAlert solution, which was developed with support from their IT apprenticeship scheme, aims to alleviate health service strain and also offer further support to the “sandwich generation”, made up of more than 10m informal carers [5], who often struggle to check on family members regularly due to location, lifestyle, or work and family commitments.
“Traditional elderly care often waits for something to go wrong, like a fall or decline in health, before stepping in,” says Andrew Ridpath, Head of Emergency Resolution at Taking Care. “With ActiveAlert, we’re changing that approach by proactively monitoring wellbeing and providing support before emergencies occur. This not only helps maintain our customers’ independence but also offers their families invaluable peace of mind.“
Amanda Amory from Cambridgeshire, invested in a Taking Care personal alarm for her 85-year-old father, Ron, after he broke his elbow in a fall. Despite Ron now having 24/7 care, the personal alarm remains a lifeline for the family.
Speaking of the alarm package, which includes ActiveAlert, Amanda said: “My father lives seven miles away, and despite his 24/7 care I still visit twice a day and rely on his personal alarm when his carers take their daily two hour break.”
“Initially, the alarm was for alerting us to any physical issues when my dad was more mobile, whereas now, it’s very much a comfort blanket for all of us, providing essential peace of mind that he can access help at any time of the night or day – it really is worth its weight in gold to us.”
“Thanks to ActiveAlert, knowing if he is pressing his alarm more regularly during the night or on the odd occasion he is alone allows us to better understand his mental wellbeing, along with knowing there’s always support in place, at all times.”
By embracing AI and proactive monitoring, Taking Care is setting a new standard in elderly care, ensuring that older adults can maintain their independence while families gain peace of mind.
ActiveAlert is now available to all new Taking Care alarm customers at no additional cost, seamlessly integrating into their existing 24/7 support service. To discover how ActiveAlert can provide peace of mind for your family, visit ActiveAlert online at https://taking.care/pages/active-alert
About Taking Care Personal Alarms, part of AXA Health
Taking Care, a subsidiary of AXA Health, has been providing personal alarm services for more than 30 years. Taking Care has helped ¼ million people and their families with personal alarms, supporting customers and their families across the UK.
Each year Taking Care resolves over 49,900 customer emergencies from older and vulnerable people. Customers love the peace of mind the service offers. 99% of them say they like the security of knowing someone’s there at the press of a button.
The company is the only Which? approved personal alarm service and is the trusted provider of the Age Co Personal Alarm Service. Taking Care employs around 250 staff, each carefully chosen for their caring and professional manner.
Contact Details
For more information, please contact:
John Swaffield
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07909 820 701
Sources
- Survey of 2,009 UK adults commissioned by Taking Care and carried out between the 13th and 19th of September 2024
- 2021 Census data
- NHS.uk Falls and Prevention
- Taking Care Elderly People and Falls report
- Projecting Older People Population Information (POPPI)
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Science & Technology
Breakthroughs and Challenges: The Latest in Scientific Advancements
A roundup of the latest scientific advancements, exploring breakthroughs and the challenges that lie ahead.
In a notable development, Dr. Emily Carter, a leading researcher at the National Institute of Health, announced a significant breakthrough in the field of gene therapy. On September 10, 2026, she revealed that her team successfully edited genes in living organisms to eliminate hereditary diseases. This advancement holds the potential to revolutionize medical treatment, offering hope to millions suffering from genetic disorders. However, it also raises ethical concerns about the extent of human genetic modification and its long-term impacts.
Simultaneously, the European Space Agency (ESA) has made strides in space exploration with the launch of its latest satellite, Euclid. Launched on September 8, 2026, Euclid aims to map the universe’s dark matter and dark energy, key components that constitute most of the cosmos. This mission could unravel the mysteries of the universe’s expansion and provide insights into the fundamental nature of existence. The ESA emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in this endeavor, as understanding dark matter and energy requires global scientific cooperation.
In the realm of renewable energy, SolarTech Innovations reported a breakthrough in solar panel efficiency on September 12, 2026. Their new technology purportedly increases the energy conversion rate by 25%, potentially transforming the solar energy industry. This advancement could accelerate the shift towards sustainable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, questions remain about the scalability of this technology and its economic viability for widespread adoption.
Meanwhile, the agricultural sector witnessed a milestone with AgriBio’s development of drought-resistant crops. Announced on September 7, 2026, these genetically engineered plants could enhance food security in regions prone to extreme weather conditions. The company states that these crops can withstand prolonged periods without water, ensuring stable yields. Critics, however, caution about the ecological implications and the potential for unintended consequences on biodiversity.
Lastly, the tech industry is abuzz with the unveiling of QuantumNext’s quantum computing system. Revealed on September 11, 2026, this system reportedly performs calculations at unprecedented speeds, paving the way for advancements in fields like cryptography and complex data analysis. While the potential applications are vast, experts debate the readiness of existing infrastructure to support such technology and the security challenges it may pose.
These scientific advancements highlight the dynamic nature of innovation and the diverse challenges accompanying progress. Each breakthrough presents a spectrum of opportunities and ethical dilemmas that require careful consideration. As these developments unfold, stakeholders from various sectors must engage in dialogue to navigate the complexities they entail.
Looking forward, the scientific community faces the task of addressing the practical and ethical questions these innovations raise. Continued research, open discourse, and policy-making will be crucial in harnessing the benefits of these advancements while mitigating their risks. The next few months will likely see increased scrutiny and discussion as these technologies move from the laboratory to real-world applications.
Science & Technology
Momentum Builds to Curb AI Development Amid Safety Concerns
Tech leaders advocate for slowing AI progress to mitigate risks and ensure safety.
On September 13, 2026, Elon Musk made headlines once more, but this time it wasn’t about electric cars or space exploration. Musk, along with OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, has taken a stand urging for a slowdown in the rapid development of artificial intelligence. The trio’s call to action reflects a burgeoning movement within the technology community. The aim is to ensure that AI advancement does not outpace the necessary safety measures that must be in place to protect society. Musk, known for his outspoken concerns regarding AI, has been vocal about the potential existential threats posed by unchecked AI development. His stance is not without precedent. In past years, he has been an advocate for AI regulation, emphasizing the importance of establishing robust safety protocols. Sam Altman shares this concern. As a key figure in AI innovation, Altman’s support for decelerating AI progress highlights the industry’s internal awareness of its own vulnerabilities. Altman has been instrumental in shaping AI discussions, both as a developer and a policymaker. His involvement underscores a critical shift in perspective among those who once championed AI’s limitless potential.
Dario Amodei’s call for a slowdown adds another layer of urgency. As CEO of Anthropic, Amodei’s insights into AI’s capabilities are profound. He has long advocated for responsible AI development, emphasizing research into AI safety and alignment. His company, Anthropic, is at the forefront of AI safety research, making his voice particularly influential. Amodei’s concerns are grounded in the belief that AI systems need to be designed with alignment and transparency as core principles. The consensus among these leaders is clear. The pace of AI development must be moderated to prevent potential societal disruptions. The public discourse around AI safety has evolved significantly over the past few years. Initially, concerns were often dismissed as speculative or alarmist. However, as AI systems become more integrated into daily life, their impact is undeniable. From autonomous vehicles to intelligent personal assistants, AI technologies influence countless aspects of modern existence. The rapid integration has outpaced regulatory frameworks, leaving gaps that could potentially be exploited.
This movement to slow AI development is gaining traction within the tech community. It reflects a deeper understanding of the potential risks and ethical considerations that come with advanced AI systems. Industry leaders are increasingly aware of their responsibility to mitigate these risks. There is a growing consensus that more comprehensive safety measures and regulatory oversight are necessary. The call for a slowdown is not a demand to halt innovation. Rather, it is a plea for a more deliberate approach to AI development. The goal is to establish a regulatory framework that prioritizes safety, ethical considerations, and long-term societal impact. This approach seeks to ensure that AI technologies are developed responsibly and with foresight. The motivation behind this push is multifaceted. At its core is the desire to prevent unintended consequences that could arise from unchecked AI advancement. These include potential job displacement, privacy concerns, and the risk of AI systems being used for malicious purposes. The tech industry is increasingly aware that the societal implications of AI are vast and complex. There is a recognition that addressing these challenges requires collaboration across sectors and disciplines.
The momentum to slow AI development also reflects a shift in how technology leaders view their role in society. There is a growing acknowledgment that technological innovation must be balanced with ethical responsibility. This recognition is driving the call for more stringent safety protocols and regulatory oversight. As the debate around AI continues, the voices advocating for caution are becoming more prominent. The movement is gaining momentum, supported by influential figures and organizations committed to ensuring that AI development proceeds safely and responsibly. The challenge now is translating this momentum into actionable policies and frameworks. Governments and regulatory bodies must work closely with industry leaders to develop comprehensive guidelines that address the unique challenges posed by AI. This collaboration is essential to fostering innovation while safeguarding societal interests. The path forward requires a collective effort to balance progress with prudence. As AI continues to evolve, the need for thoughtful and responsible development becomes increasingly critical. The calls to slow down AI development are a testament to the industry’s commitment to navigating this complex terrain with care.
The journey ahead is not without challenges. Implementing effective regulatory measures will require cooperation and consensus among diverse stakeholders. However, the growing momentum to address AI safety concerns offers hope for a future where technological advancement is aligned with societal well-being. As industry leaders and policymakers work together, there is potential to shape a future where AI technologies enhance, rather than disrupt, the fabric of society. The commitment to responsible AI development is key to ensuring that AI technologies are harnessed for the greater good. This forward-thinking approach will be crucial in defining the next chapter of AI innovation. The momentum to slow down AI development is more than a precautionary measure. It is a strategic decision to prioritize safety, ethics, and long-term impact. As the conversation around AI continues to evolve, the focus on responsible development will remain at the forefront. The future of AI depends on the choices made today. By embracing a more measured approach, the tech community can pave the way for a future where AI serves humanity’s best interests.
Science & Technology
Quantum Computing Breakthrough: Data Security Implications
MIT’s new quantum algorithm could revolutionize data processing, posing significant challenges for current cryptographic systems. This article explores the implications for data security and potential solutions to counteract quantum threats.
The recent breakthrough in quantum computing by researchers at MIT marks a pivotal moment in the field of data security. On August 19, 2026, Nature published the details of a new quantum algorithm capable of processing data at speeds previously unimaginable. While this innovation holds enormous potential for advancing machine learning and other computational fields, it simultaneously presents a formidable challenge to the current cryptographic systems relied upon to safeguard sensitive information.
At the core of contemporary data security is the reliance on encryption techniques that depend on the complexity of certain mathematical problems, such as the factoring of large numbers, which are currently infeasible for classical computers to solve within a practical timeframe. However, quantum computers, with their ability to perform calculations exponentially faster than traditional machines, threaten to render these encryption methods obsolete. This development could have profound implications for sectors that prioritize data security, including finance, healthcare, and government, where sensitive data is at risk of exposure.
The immediate concern for cybersecurity experts is the potential for quantum computers to crack widely used encryption protocols, such as RSA and ECC, which form the backbone of secure internet communications. The computational power unleashed by quantum algorithms could theoretically decrypt encrypted data in a fraction of the time required by classical computers, leaving digital communications vulnerable to interception and exploitation.
In response to this looming threat, researchers and industry experts are actively exploring the development of quantum-resistant algorithms. These algorithms are designed to withstand the capabilities of quantum computing, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data even in a post-quantum world. Efforts in this direction include the study of lattice-based cryptography, hash-based signatures, and multivariate polynomial equations as potential foundations for secure encryption systems.
The urgency to develop and implement quantum-resistant cryptography is underscored by the rapid pace of advancements in quantum technology. Tech companies, governments, and academic institutions are investing heavily in research to safeguard their data infrastructures against quantum threats. The transition to quantum-resistant systems, however, is not without its challenges. It requires a comprehensive overhaul of existing cryptographic frameworks and widespread adoption across industries, a process that demands both time and resources.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of quantum computing in fields such as artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, and materials science cannot be overlooked. The same capabilities that pose a threat to data security also offer the promise of unprecedented advancements in computational power, enabling breakthroughs that were previously beyond reach.
As the world stands on the brink of a quantum revolution, the dual-edged nature of this technological leap is clear. While the security of our digital world faces new threats, the opportunity for innovation and progress is equally profound. The path forward will require a concerted effort to balance the risks and rewards of quantum computing, ensuring that the transformative potential of this technology is harnessed responsibly and securely.
In the coming years, as quantum technologies continue to evolve, the focus will be on developing robust standards for quantum-resistant cryptography and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to navigate this new frontier. The race to secure our digital future in the face of quantum capabilities is not just a technical challenge but a strategic imperative that will shape the landscape of cybersecurity for decades to come.
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