A GUIDE FOR FAMILIES AND CAREGIVERS
Understanding senior home activity monitoring
When someone wants to keep living independently, families often want a clearer picture of everyday life between calls and visits. Home activity monitoring uses information from selected sensors to help people decide when a check-in may be useful.
Good Shepherd is developing a non-intrusive home monitoring system for seniors and others who may benefit from additional support at home. Phase 1 is planned for December 1, 2026. This guide explains the questions to discuss before deciding whether a system is suitable.
How does activity monitoring work?
Depending on the equipment and setup, home sensors may provide information about movement, door activity, or daily routines. Families and caregivers can use this information as context for follow-up. A change in routine is a reason to check in, rather than a diagnosis or proof of an emergency.
For Good Shepherd, the equipment, features, access, and follow-up arrangements should be confirmed with the team for the specific trial. Do not assume that every sensor or feature is included.
Who might find it useful?
People exploring support for independent living, family members who live at a distance, caregivers, and care providers may find activity information useful alongside their existing contact and care arrangements. The person living at home should take part in the decision, including what is monitored and who can see the information.
Activity monitoring, cameras, and medical alert devices
These categories serve different needs. An activity monitoring system provides context about routines. A camera provides images, with different privacy considerations. A medical alert device may offer a way to call for help, depending on its features and service. Ask each provider exactly what its system can do and who responds.
Good Shepherd does not guarantee detection of falls, injuries, emergencies, or other incidents. It does not replace emergency services or personal care. Joining its waitlist does not authorize cameras or wearables; trial participation requires a separate agreement and applicable consents.
Questions to ask before choosing a system
- Which activities and rooms would be monitored, and which devices are involved?
- What information is collected, who can access it, and how can access be withdrawn?
- Who will review changes and follow up with the person at home?
- What happens if a sensor, power, or internet connection stops working?
- Which capabilities are available today, and which are still being developed?
- What are the equipment costs, service terms, trial conditions, and cancellation arrangements?
Discuss Good Shepherd with the team
Good Shepherd is in development. Availability, suitability, and participation are confirmed individually. Joining the waitlist does not enroll you in a trial or start a paid subscription.
Contact the team · Good Shepherd FAQ · Waitlist privacy · Trial agreement for review
Updated November 1, 2026.