It may be difficult to predict the future, but given the pace at which technology is changing the world, it’s safe to say that retirement (like everything else) is destined to look fairly different 10–15 years from now. Business forecasting company Kiplinger has identified several innovations set to revolutionise retirement by 2030. Here’s a look at a few of them, and how they’re likely to change your life.

Drone deliveries

By 2030, delivery by drone won’t simply be the stuff of futuristic movies – there will be packages landing at your front door! And that’s guaranteed to lighten the load for seniors who rely on friends and loved ones to drop off fresh produce, prescription medication and the like when they’re no longer able to drive. Although, given this next innovation, getting to the shops may no longer be a challenge…

Driverless cars

According to an article on Forbes.com, “Given the advanced state of driverless technologies and the amount of money being poured into the sector, there is little question—make that, no question at all—that within 10 years, driverless cars will be the norm.” Just imagine what that could mean for seniors who are no longer able to get behind the wheel as a result of hearing and vision loss. Before you get too excited, though, consider that according to Wired.com, “Most developers believe it will take decades to build a car that can drive anywhere it pleases, likes humans do today—if it ever happens at all.” And when they’ll reach South African roads is anyone’s guess.

Mobile monitoring

Kiplinger predicts that by 2030, fitness trackers will be capable of monitoring everything from blood pressure to glucose levels, and could go so far as to administer electrocardiograms and alert emergency services if you’re having a heart attack or stroke.

Customised medical treatments

Kiplinger also predicts that, “Personalized medicine will be in full stride by 2030, thanks to the big drop in the cost of sequencing a person’s DNA, so that each and every individual’s medical care can be tailored to his or her own unique genetic makeup.” Other medical innovations they’re anticipating are laboratory-grown organs and implantable microchips that are capable of dispensing medication according to a prescribed schedule.

Virtual reality glasses

While virtual reality is still largely limited to the video gaming industry, Kiplinger predicts that by 2030, virtual reality glasses will enable you to converse with 3-D images of people (and you thought Skype was impressive!), allow your doctor to call up your patient information during surgery, and enable you to ‘travel’ to distant destinations from the comfort of your favourite armchair. The sky really is the limit!

Smarter smart phones

If you think your current smart phone is smart, think again. Kiplinger believes that by 2030, these pocket rockets will be able to control all of your appliances including screens, locks, lights and security, giving you complete control of your home from anywhere, at any time. Appliances will get smarter, too. Wouldn’t you love to own a fridge that can monitor its contents and order anything you’re almost out of? Kiplinger predicts that by 2030, you’ll be able to do that.

How does Evergreen Lifestyle see retirement in the future?

Whatever the future may hold (and we’re excited to see what these changes will mean for our villagers), we believe that a happy retirement is based on the four pillars that constitute our Partnership for Life promise.

• Continuous care Evergreen offers a range of healthcare solutions, including discreet and personalised home-based healthcare, state-of-the-art, 24-hour medical emergency assistance in all homes and monthly clinics and regular health checks.
• Physical security All Evergreen Lifestyle Villages have strict access control, state-of-the-art security systems, around-the-clock foot and bicycle patrols and control rooms that are manned and monitored 24/7.
• Financial peace of mind The Life Right purchase model ensures affordability and long-term security for all Evergreen residents.
• Sense of community This is fostered in Evergreen’s warm and welcoming Lifestyle Centres, which typically include a bistro, TV and open-plan lounges, library, games room and entertainment area, and by friendly staff who go above and beyond to make residents feel part of village life.

If you’re keen to find out more about a village near you, take a look at our range of developments or get in touch with us on 087 808 7000.