The LST-Box solution offers a system composed of hardware with internet connection and Bluetooth which integrates three services specifically designed to facilitate daily life of the older people:KNX domotic control (includes security alerts), management of social networks (Facebook and Twitter) and self monitoring of health care, to track daily blood pressure, weight, medication and diet via Bluetooth connection to a blood pressure cuff and a scale.

These data can be shared with the primary care physician via email. LST-Box can be accessed through the television, computer or smartphone both within and outside the home. Services are offered in a personalized way, adapted to the needs and preferences of the user, in terms of its contents presentation and the way he interacts with them.

“LST Box offers an independent living support system, integrating home automation devices with health sensors and social networks” 

• Need for improved technology approach to older people [Seniorwatch, 2008]. ICT solutions can prolong independent living for the older people and extend the time they remain active and safe in their everyday environment.
• The process of aging is leading to an increasing number of older people (aged 65 years or over) with various health problems such as hypertension, obesity, dementia, etc.. It is necessary that health and welfare systems are adapted to be more friendly to older people, through active promotion of health and self-care.
• The main fears of getting older are living with physical limitations (worldwide, more than 46% of people over 60 have a disability), having to depend on other people (the dependence increases with age) and feeling alone [INE].
• Loneliness is a common problem among the older people, and the fact of living alone is not always an indicator of loneliness. For senior citizens, social support is very important, especially when something bad happens.

“The main fears of getting older are: living with physical limitations, depending on others and feeling of loneliness” 

• At global scale, every second 2 people turn 60, which means that the annual total is almost 58 million people that turn 60. In 2012, 810 million people were 60 or older. It is estimated that the proportion will be 1 over 5 people in 2050 [Aging in the XXI Century, HelpAge Internacional].
• In Spain, 85% of older people have access to ICT solutions, 86,6% of people between 55 and 64 years old and almost 80% of people over 65 use mobile devices. This is a great market potential for assistive technologies [CENTAC].
• Regarding expenditure, people with disabilities invest, on average, 25% more in ICT solutions than the rest of the population, which is equivalent to more than 2.800 annual Euros– 9% of average expenditure per family unit [EDAD].

“…The solution is being tested on a pilot with 7.000 users in several European regions…”

• Multiplatform: access to services through various devices (TV, mobile, tablet), vs. dedicated devices.
• Modularity: additional services and sensors can be installed, vs. closed, not modular systems.
• Configurable and personalizable solution, according to the user’s needs and preferences, providing high usability levels. Especially focused on older people (contents, user interface).
• Reduction of health and welfare services expenditure, thanks to the support on self-care and health status self-management (the system improves the accessibility at home and increases the older’s people autonomy): 80% of public health resources are assigned to chronic diseases management and it is estimated that managing these conditions through ICT solutions could help reduce around 15-30% of the expenditure [CENTAC].
• The solution is being tested on a pilot with 7.000 users in several European regions.