Seniors are the fastest growing population in South Carolina. As this population continues to grow, so does the need for supporting independent living in order to limit the strain on private assisted living facilities as well as the State's systems. Investigators at the South Carolina Center of Economic Excellence are developing sensor-based technology dedicated to preserving independent living and quality of life standards for senior citizens. The SeniorSmart technology will help seniors maintain intellectual activity and promote independent mobility both inside and outside the home.

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In just six years, South Carolina’s Centers of Economic Excellence (CoEE) Program, which provides state lottery proceeds to match non-state investment to recruit top scientists and engineers to lead cutting-edge research programs in the state, has generated 2,000-plus jobs in South Carolina and boosted the state’s economy by nearly a quarter of a billion dollars ($246 million) in non-state investment or pledges to the program.

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With life expectancies increasing and baby boomers aging, the number of Americans 65 and older will make up an impressive 21 percent of the U.S. population by 2050, totaling 86.7 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This dramatic increase will present challenges to the physical and financial infrastructure of South Carolina and the nation.

To address these challenges by helping older adults remain healthy and independent, The University of South Carolina (USC) has recruited one of the leading experts on geriatrics and aging. Dr. Sue Levkoff, who previously worked at Harvard University, has been named the CoEE Endowed Chair in Community and Social Support--SmartHOME at the SeniorSMART Center of Economic Excellence (CoEE).

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