Aging in Place Technologies to Help Seniors Stay at Home
With the help of technology, aging in place has never been easier. However, finding the tools that will empower older adults instead of frustrating them can be a challenge. Today’s seniors are more tech savvy than many give them credit for, but most appreciate some hands-on support when they are first learning how to use a new piece of equipment.
Caregivers can provide the assistance seniors need to reap the most benefits from technology. Of course, choosing the right devices in the first place is important. This list of top aging-in-place devices will help seniors and their loved ones feel more secure about living at home.
Remote Health Monitoring
Concerns about their health can make it difficult for some seniors to leave home and enjoy social activities. Worrying about their heart rate or oxygen levels is stressful and may lead to even more complications. Wearable devices that allow adults of any age to track and share important health information can relieve worries and provide more freedom.
Easy-to-wear devices can keep track of:
- Sleep patterns
- Body temperature
- Heart rate
- Oxygen levels
- Amount of physical activity
- Calorie intake and calories burned
The information gathered from a device can be sent directly to a healthcare provider so potential issues can be identified and monitored. Remote health monitoring technologies are especially helpful for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
Video Doorbell
Home security is a big concern for seniors, especially those who live alone. Concerns about break-ins or dishonest salespeople aren’t just paranoia. Scammers and other criminals specifically target older adults, assuming they will be easy to harm. Video doorbells like Ring are easy to install and can be up and running in about an hour.
Video doorbells not only allow people to see who’s at the door when they’re home, but they can also remotely monitor any activity at the door.
Medication Management Systems
Getting older often means taking more pills. With prescribed medications, over-the-counter remedies, and vitamins and other supplements to worry about, it’s no wonder some seniors forget their medications or take some at the wrong time.
Medication management systems work by sending reminders through a smartphone. Automated dispensers also send notifications and dispense the correct dosages at the correct time. These types of technologies can help people stay on track and reduce the risk of under- or overmedicating.
GPS Watch
Some smart watches include a GPS feature that tracks the wearer’s location. Knowing someone can keep an eye out for them gives many seniors the comfort to leave home and engage in their community. Some GPS watches can also contact 911 if a fall or other health emergency is detected.
Online Grocery Delivery
While they are not “devices,” apps to enable grocery delivery make it easier for seniors to get healthy, fresh food without leaving home. Going to the grocery store can become a problem for many older people. Some may not be able to drive or walk up and down the aisles in large grocery stores. Reaching the items they need and carrying heavy bags of groceries home can also be a problem.
Grocery delivery overcomes these obstacles and helps to ensure older adults have access to the healthy foods they need.
Virtual Home Assistant
Devices like Google Home and Amazon Echo help seniors control their home environment by simply using their voice. These virtual assistants can lock the doors, adjust the thermostat, turn lights off or on, and perform other tasks. Seniors living at home can feel safer controlling these chores from the comfort of their bed or favorite chair.
Telehealth Services
Telehealth medical or mental health providers make it easy to receive care from home. For most seniors, a telehealth physician won’t be able to provide all the care they need, but online appointments make it possible to speak with licensed, certified physicians when something unexpected comes up.
Online therapy provides seniors with the opportunity to engage in regular therapy appointments without worrying about transportation or the stigmas attached to mental health conditions. Older adults who live alone may suffer from depression related to isolation, illness, and other factors. Easy access to mental health support can help them live happier, more fulfilling lives.
Can Technology Help You or a Senior You Care About?
Most older adults embrace helpful technologies, even though they may require some assistance in learning to master them. Technologies that focus on health and home safety are especially helpful for seniors who wish to age in place. Virtual home assistants and doorbell cameras are items that help seniors stay confident in their ability to remain safe in their homes.
Telehealth medical services and remote medical devices are just two tech options that support a senior’s health and make it possible for them to stay active and socially engaged.
If you know an older adult who wants to age in place, tell them about the benefits of certain technologies. Most importantly, offer to help them set up and learn how to use different devices for the best results.
If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of a plan to age in place, contact Family Matters In-Home Care today for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.
Some of the services offered by Family Matter In-Home Care include: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Bed & Wheelchair Transfer Assistance, Companionship, Housekeeping & Meal Preparation, Personal Care, Recovery Care, and Transportation.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater San Diego, Family Matter In-Home Care has offices throughout California.
