In this day and age of ever-advancing technology, our beloved elderly can feel lost and confused. According to a 2012 Pew Research Center study, over 50% of senior adults aged 65 and older use the Internet and 77% own a cellphone. Many senior adults have shown willingness enthusiasm about learning and adapting to technology, but there are still some who scowl at the idea of using gadgets and gizmos. We at Caring Nurses Home Care Agency in Edgewood MD believe that today’s technology can help seniors age in place more comfortably and securely. Our home care agency in Edgewood MD help keep the elderly connected, active and engaged in technology to help them see realize its benefits. Here are some senior-friendly devices to help seniors maintain their independence while monitoring their safety:
- Tablets – tablets can both be entertaining and functional to senior adults. It is easy to use and offers a wide screen which is convenient when your eyesight starts to get poor. You can listen to music, play puzzle, mind and strategy games, connect to the internet to communicate with family and friends, take and view photos, install applications to help monitor your health, read e-books or e-magazines and so much more. You can say you have the whole world at your fingertips.
- Cellphones or Smartphones – cellphones aren’t new to the senior age group, however, smartphones are something entirely different. There’s a whole range of functions to learn but having a smartphone is essential. Aside from its primary function of keeping the elderly in touch with family and friends through calls, texts or emails, they are also helping to keep seniors safe and healthy. Companies have designed smartphones that come with urgent response services to be used in the event of an emergency.
- Medication Dispensing Systems – medication dispensing systems are automated assistants that have been stocked by caregivers or loved ones with several days’ worth of medication at a time. The system can provide reminders when it’s time to take a medication. It even has the function to notify caregivers if they’re not being taken.
- Activity Trackers – exercise and frequent physical activity is a great way to help senior adults maintain their endurance, strength, balance and energy. Wrist activity trackers can measure metrics like steps taken and encourage daily activity to allow older adults to take control of their health and wellness.
- Monitoring and Personal Emergency Response Systems – is quite necessary for senior adults aging in place alone. This system consists of sensors placed in the most frequently used rooms of the house and can provide information to a long-distance caregiver such as movement patterns, medication usage and more. Personal Emergency Response Systems or PERS are lightweight, wireless, mobile devices. In the event of an emergency, pressing the button on the device automatically connects the user to a response agent who can identify the senior and their location, contact neighbours or family, dispatch emergency medical services, access a nurse or offer additional assistance. This technological advancement provides a simple, convenient and inexpensive way for seniors to stay safe.
- Home Security Systems and Smart Home Technology – home security systems consists of motion detectors that serve as an important part of a comprehensive home security solution, alerting residents if there’s movement around their home after dark. This system works cooperatively with Smart Home Technology are electronic devices such as like LED lighting, smart thermostats, smart door alarms, smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and appliances that can be controlled remotely via smartphone, tablet or computer.
There are many technological options available for adults who want to age in place. We at Caring Nurses Home Care Agency in Edgewood MD believe that all it takes is a considerately designed piece of technology to help our elderly loved ones live healthier and happier lives.
