Gillibrand Holds Aging Committee Hearing On Preventing Falls, Requests Study On Emerging Technology That Can Help Seniors Age Safely

Gillibrand Holds Aging Committee Hearing On Preventing Falls, Requests Study On Emerging Technology That Can Help Seniors Age Safely

May 20, 2026

Watch The Hearing Here

Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), ranking member of the U.S. Senate Aging Committee, held a committee hearing alongside Chairman Rick Scott (R-FL) to examine the threat of falls among older Americans and evaluate how technology, community-based programs, and federal initiatives are improving prevention, early detection, and recovery. The hearing also highlighted the proven impact of Area Agencies on Aging, Administration for Community Living-supported community programs, and private sector innovation.

The hearing follows Gillibrand's request for a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study about how technology can transform the lives of older adults and people with disabilities.

"Falls pose a significant health risk to our seniors and jeopardize their ability to age safely in the locations of their choice," said Senator Gillibrand. "Emerging technologies like wearable devices have the potential to significantly improve the lives and safety of older adults and people with disabilities, but we must thoroughly investigate these technologies to understand their limitations. That's why I requested a GAO study on these technologies and how the federal government can facilitate their adoption."

As discussed at the Aging Committee hearing, emerging technologies-like artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable devices-have the potential to significantly improve the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities by helping prevent falls and allowing seniors to more easily age in place. For instance, AI might help people with disabilities communicate with others and is being explored as a means to address social isolation for some older adults. Further, wearable devices can allow individuals to live independently by helping older adults monitor their health, detecting falls, and accessing help.

However, these technologies also come with some accessibility challenges that should be thoroughly investigated. Gillibrand's letter asks the following questions of GAO:

• Which technologies show promise in helping older adults and adults with disabilities live safely and independently in their homes and communities, including in areas such as injury prevention, mitigation, and recovery, promoting health and well-being, and reducing isolation and loneliness?
• What challenges do older adults and adults with disabilities face when adopting these technologies?
• What role can the federal government play in facilitating and monitoring the adoption of these technologies among older adults and adults with disabilities?

Gillibrand's letter is co-signed by Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Andy Kim (D-NJ).

The text of the letter can be found here.

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