Smart welfare technology in an inspiring setting

The new display area is located in the same space as Seniortorget, the municipality’s meeting place for active seniors. Agnes Eriksson and Ulrika Söderholm coordinate the activities and welcome visitors on site. They know how the technology in the inspiration environment works and are happy to demonstrate it.

“There are many really clever aids here,” says Agnes Eriksson. “Among them is a doorbell with a built-in camera that connects to the owner’s mobile phone or tablet. It even allows you to talk to the person standing outside the door. There’s also a webcam that enables safe online visits and easy contact with relatives.”

Other examples on display include a digital medication reminder, smart remote controls, and motion-sensor lights that replace traditional switches.

The shelves also feature practical, hands-on tools and aids. Ulrika Söderholm shows an ergonomic potato peeler, a weighted blanket, an extra-large deck of cards, and a handy grabber for picking up things from the floor.

“Another popular item is the easy-to-use pill organizer,” she says. “Soon, we’ll also be adding a stylish rise-and-recline chair to our collection.”

Dare to try

Marie Fredriksson, quality manager at the Elderly Centre, has worked together with Maria Persson, head of operations, and Katharina Ekström, unit manager, to purchase products and smart assistive devices for the inspiration environment. The collection showcases items that can be bought on the open market and includes information about where each product is sold.

“We want to make technology less intimidating and encourage more people to dare to try,” she says. “Anyone is welcome to come here to explore, touch, and test. Instead of jumping straight to major interventions that affect personal freedom, older people and those with disabilities can try out different aids here to see if they meet their needs.”

Through its investment in digital welfare technology, the Social Services Department in Boden Municipality aims to increase understanding and acceptance of digital solutions. This helps resources to be used more efficiently and creates more room for care efforts where human contact is irreplaceable.

“We have an ageing population, and it’s already difficult to make our resources stretch far enough,” says Maria Persson. “Here we present safety solutions that promote independence among older people and make it possible for them to live at home for longer.”

The technology of the future

Jan Segerstedt is a frequent visitor to Seniortorget. He appreciates the new inspiration environment and believes it will make it easier for more people to approach modern technology.

“This is the future,” he says. “At the Elderly Centre, there’s also knowledgeable staff who can guide us on how to use these new digital aids. It’s fantastic.”

Inger Wikström nods in agreement. She thinks Seniortorget is the best initiative the municipality has ever launched and visits regularly to take part in activities, stay active, and learn new things. For her, the most important aspect is the opportunity to make connections and combat loneliness.
For Inger, security means having friends and someone to call when needed.

“There are so many things here that make everyday life easier and increase safety at home,” she says. “I use that little stylus pen to tap on my mobile phone. Another of my favourites is the easy-grip jar opener. Those and several other smart aids help me manage perfectly well on my own.”

This news article was also published in Boden Bild issue 2–2025. Curious about more news from Boden Bild? Explore the full collection.