What do users say?
Hear from residents, housing managers, and care providers.
“I don't notice the sensors, don't even know they are here.”
Housing resident.
Our research has revealed that people have a range of feelings about the use of sensors. We’ve collected the most common points here, and grouped them according to the kind of user involved.
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Most residents did not really notice the sensors in their homes.
People did not feel that their privacy was affected. In some cases they felt a sense of security and comfort knowing that the sensors were there.
Residents.
“I have questions about how closely I would be monitored.”
Public member.
“Sensors do not bother me at all.”
Housing resident.
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People without sensors in their homes were more concerned about privacy.
Members of the public with no experience of sensors had concerns about being watched or monitored too closely, and were worried about privacy invasion and intrusiveness. These perceptions could hinder people’s willingness to use the technology.
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Residents already receiving healthcare services welcomed home sensors.
This group tended to be familiar with more intrusive monitoring, were less concerned about its application, and more likely to accept its adoption. We found that in general, health and vulnerability were important factors influencing attitudes toward sensor systems.
“Sensors are not an issue, if you want me to have more, I will.”
Housing resident.
Housing associations
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Housing providers found that sensors were effective for protecting the health of residents and homes.
They helped to identify properties that needed repairs. Extra data improved efficiency and long term planning.
“By intervening early you minimise the problem and stop a load of other problems developing.”
Housing manager.
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Sensors allowed housing associations to take proactive action.
It is not feasible to focus on every customer at all times. Using sensor data helped to identify residents that may need support, providing opportunities to discuss the causes of possible issues such as income, rent arrears, and heating costs.
“The system moves us from being entirely reactive to becoming pre-emptive.”
Housing manager.
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Sensors also helped to manage and maximise the life of the buildings.
They were particularly useful for older or mixed housing stock, helping to identify previously unknown building issues and problems that could be fixed with repairs rather than replacements – saving both time and money.
“Sensor data helped to rationalise workloads in a manageable way.”
Housing manager.
Care providers
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“Sensor data can enable us to extend an offer of support to a greater number of people.”
Healthcare provider.
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“I see this system like a fire alarm, it could become standard and ultimately save lives.”
Healthcare provider.
