Last Updated: August 13, 2026
The latest EY Consumer Health Study reveals UK healthcare consumers are showing a strong interest in smart homes and digital health solutions to help them age independently. The research surveyed 4,500 consumers, including 700 from the UK, aged 50 and older across six markets and interviewed more than 30 health executives and aging professionals.
The research revealed that 70% of UK respondents would likely adopt a ‘smart home’, equipped with sensors and devices to monitor and alert their healthcare team and family to potential emergencies.
The growth in interest towards smart home solutions comes as 64% of UK respondents rate the aging care system as fair or poor. This is slightly above the global average (60%).
Respondents expressed a strong desire to maintain independence, with many being open to using technology to support healthy aging: 59% reported they are moderately to extremely likely to use digital tools that collect health data – such as blood pressure readings – which they can then share with their healthcare team. In addition to this, 59% indicated interest in digitally enabled care models offering both virtual and in-person options. 44% said they are receptive to AI-driven technologies that analyse health data to identify potential risks and recommend appropriate treatments as they age.
For individuals who may need more than tech-assisted monitoring, 65% said they would be moderately to extremely likely to consider ‘hospital-at-home’ programmes. Their top priorities for such programmes would be to include basic support for daily activities, medication assistance, sensors to alert their family if they have fallen and the installation of various safety equipment.
Naimh O’Beirne, EY UK&I Head of Health, said, ‘As people live longer, their expectations for aging are changing. Our study shows that consumers want more than traditional care – they want technology-enabled solutions that help them stay independent, connected and safe at home. This is a clear signal for health systems and innovators to rethink aging care and invest in models that combine digital tools with personalised support. By centring care in the home and community, health organisations have a fantastic opportunity to deliver better outcomes and experiences for consumers, their families, their budgets and society.’
Health executives interviewed for the study advocate shifting from a treatment-focused model to a wellness-orientated approach. Evidence points to the importance of nutrition, socialisation, mobility and intellectual challenges in aging well, and some professionals are pushing for cognitive screenings to become a routine part of priority care. Despite this, the study reveals that only 24% of UK respondents participate in social clubs: 21% follow a personalised nutrition plan, 41% follow a fitness plan and 57% undertake intellectual challenges. These gaps highlight opportunities for health organisations to improve the levers that impact health aging.
Niamh O’Beirne continued, ‘This study highlights the need to support health ageing by encouraging social connection, good nutrition, regular physical activity and lifelong learning. By promoting these wellness-focused habits and making preventative care a priority, health organisations can help people not only live longer but enjoy a higher quality of life in their later years’.
You can read more about the survey here.
In other news, a landmark pioneering project has generated £6.9 million for unpaid carers and supports over 10,000 people to boost their finances.
