In 2008, the University of South Carolina (USC), Palmetto Health, and Lutheran Homes of South Carolina signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Fraunhofer Institute for Software Engineering and the University of Kaiserlautern to conduct research that may result in technology that supports independent living for senior citizens. The Fraunhofer Institute is a prestigious global translational research organization based in Germany that is best known for creating the technology used in MP3 players. An additional MOU was signed with Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community. SeniorSMART research offers a wealth of opportunities to potential partners and investors interested in emerging technology designed to preserve older adult independence.

While the Health Sciences South Carolina-supported SeniorSMART CoEE is housed primarily on USC’s Columbia campus, research is being conducted statewide, leveraging the intellectual assets of the HSSC partners. As part of SmartWHEELS, Clemson University and Greenville Hospital System have ongoing driver simulation studies for driver evaluation and rehabilitation.

Not only does SeniorSMART capitalize on and enrich existing research strengths in South Carolina like gerontology and automotive design, it also has the potential to enhance the quality of life for seniors, their families and caregivers around the world.