*Editor’s note: The number of global Hallyu (Korean Wave) fans is approaching approximately 225 million, according to the 2024 report by the Korea Foundation. The surge in fans marks the dawn of the "Digital Silk Road" era, where communication transcends the limitations of time and space, enabling real-time interaction across the globe. Truly, we are in the era of "Hallyu 4.0."

 

Suk Soo-sun's Design Management Story: Digital Healthcare Design

Meeting the Needs of an Aging Society

 

Contributed by Suk Soo-sun (professor at Yonsei Graduate School of Communication & Arts)

 

 

 

With the rapid advancements in digital healthcare, technology is transforming the way we approach senior care. From tailored medical treatments to predictive healthcare, innovations are addressing not only the physical health of the elderly but also their emotional and mental well-being.

 

Digital healthcare devices collect biometric data such as heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature in real time, connecting patients to healthcare institutions and support centers. These systems enable personalized services that cater to seniors’ physical conditions, daily living needs, emotional states, and overall quality of life.

 

Assistive technologies such as caregiving robots, walking aids, fall-prevention systems, and AI-driven platforms are becoming increasingly accessible. However, unlike Japan, where caregiving robots are widely adopted, South Korea’s market faces challenges such as high costs and cultural resistance.

 

At CES 2024, Samsung unveiled its AI-powered home robot, Ballie, a spherical device capable of autonomous navigation and smart home integration. Ballie is designed to monitor emergencies, send alerts, and adapt to users’ needs through real-time decision-making.

 

▲ This image of Ballie is provided by Samsung Electronics. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

Caregiving Assistance: Tracks the health and dietary habits of children, seniors, and pets. It can detect falls among the elderly and notify family members immediately.

 

Personalized Learning: Adapts to user preferences, evolving over time to enhance its functions.

Emotional Engagement: Projects optimized content onto walls, floors, or ceilings, providing entertainment and emotional support.

 

Such innovations demonstrate how technology can ensure safety, independence, and emotional satisfaction for seniors in their daily lives.

 

As South Korea prepares for a super-aged society, it must embrace systemic changes across labor, welfare, and healthcare. Policies and societal attitudes need to evolve to support active and independent lifestyles for seniors, promoting intergenerational harmony and economic growth.

 

The increasing senior population presents opportunities for growth in the silver industry, with new demands for products, services, and skilled labor. Investments in senior-oriented services and innovations are expected to boost the economy, fostering both social and economic vitality.

 

The aging population is not merely a challenge but a chance to redefine societal values and priorities. By fostering inclusivity and preparing for demographic shifts, we can unlock the potential of a truly age-friendly society.

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]