Living in Interactive Future Environments
The McKechnie Family LIFE Home
Living in Interactive Future Environments
The McKechnie Family LIFE Home is a cutting-edge research center focused on innovations in home environments. This facility mimics existing home dwellings (i.e., a typical home of today) as well as provides space for the development of next-generation smart homes (i.e., house of tomorrow) that would allow people of all ages and abilities to live fuller, healthier, and autonomous lives. Spaces include a two-bedroom home; an attached garage; multi-purpose research and collaboration rooms; outdoor areas; and capacity for community engagement. Research and development efforts focus on a range of topics related to in-home activities to improve quality of life and independence for people of all ages and abilities.
Vision
We envision a world where we are Living in Interactive Future Environments (LIFE) and technology supports our quality of life at home.
Mission
The mission of the McKechnie Family LIFE Home is to provide the infrastructure to support interdisciplinary research, industry collaborations, community partnerships, and educational opportunities that will advance the science, engineering, and translation of innovations to support independent living, healthcare needs, social interaction, and everyday activities in the home.
In the News
McKechine LIFE Home Hosts Global Education and Training (GET) and Amideast
On February 14th, 2023, McKechnie Family LIFE Home staff hosted Global Education and Training (GET) and Amideast. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the virtual reality technology, discuss the research studies being conducted at the LIFE Home.
U of I researchers developing robot to help perform household tasks
WAND TV – Researchers at the University of Illinois are looking into how robots can help older adults. They are teaming up with the Hello Robot Company to design a robot that can perform helpful tasks.
U of I researchers developing robot to help perform household tasks
WCIA TV – U of I researchers are creating robots to help older adults with physical and mental disabilities. The U of I is partnering with Hello Robot to bridge the gap between caregivers and those who need help.