Technology is everywhere, from cars that drive themselves to our phones that can track traffic conditions, we live in a technology-dependent society. Learning to adapt to these new technologies can sometimes seem off-putting to some seniors. But using these technologies could be beneficial to both seniors and their caregivers. Technology in the homes of seniors can give peace of mind to family members and caregivers knowing that their senior loved one is okay alone and make seniors’ lives easier.
Using technology can increase social connection. Apps such as Skype or FaceTime can keep family members in touch. This is beneficial for senior family members that have mobility issues and isn't able to see or visit their friends or family often.
There are a lot of devices that help keep seniors safe. Most seniors want to stay in their home while they age, and there are many technological solutions that allow just that. A Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is a wearable device, usually in the form of a necklace or bracelet, that seniors can call for help with just a push of a button in the event of an emergency.
If you or a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s, there are GPS tracking systems that follow the whereabouts of a person and tracks their daily location patterns. An alert can be sent to a family member/caregiver if something the pattern seems to be different.
There are many technologies that for physical exercise and mental exercise programs. Staying active gets harder as we age, and a senior can benefit from owning a gaming system that is controlled by motion (like a Nintendo Wii). This will give them the opportunity to stay in their home and have the ability to stay active comfortably without the struggle of having to go outside. There are plenty of downloadable games like Tetris or Mahjong that can help keep the brain active. Seniors can even challenge their friends and family!
Many apps can help track medication management. It can be challenging for seniors to remember to take their medications. Whether it's because of dementia/Alzheimer's or because of confusion on when to take certain medications, seniors can now download different apps to their smartphone or tablet (or even a loved one’s) that will send out alerts and reminders when it’s time to take pills or refill them. You can find a list of medication management apps here.
Keeping papers of medical information can be hard to keep track of or manage, but there are online tools that can keep medical history, doctor information and health conditions organized right at your fingertips - making life simpler for a caregiver and senior loved one.
Source:
https://www.caregiverstress.com/geriatric-professional-resources/5-benefits-of-technology-to-share-with-seniors-and-their-caregivers/
http://www.feedspot.com/?dadi=1#feed/fof_fo_r__f_3947951/article/4937947701?dd=431152043024336
