A full 88% of people from age 50 to 80 want to stay in their current homes as they age, a recent study found. Increasing the use of smart technologies will help make this possible. Such tools can improve health, safety, and comfort at home, while helping caregivers better assist seniors. Let’s explore what some of these technologies entail—and how they can support your loved one.
Wearable Devices
Smart devices can help track health status and behavior patterns. Such devices may include some or all of the following features:
- Health monitoring
- Medical alert systems
- Geo tracking capability
These wearable devices can monitor physical activity, tracking heart rate, body temperature, sleep, and other physical data. Moreover, they can reveal health patterns over time. They may also detect falls or other health crises, sending medical alerts to emergency contacts or services if needed. Further, some devices have geo-tracking features—an excellent safety option for those prone to wandering.
Other tools can dispense medications at pre-set times. Combined with a health app that provides medication reminders, such tools can track and improve adherence.
Sensors and Cameras
You can use indoor security sensors to monitor or even talk to your loved one remotely. Speak with your loved one about installing the sensor first, so it doesn’t feel like an invasion of privacy.
Smart lighting, and smart plugs that turn off appliances like heaters at particular times, can also help ensure safety. You can use a comprehensive alarm system, like the Ring Alarm, to alert you to a range of issues from carbon monoxide leaks to open windows. Similarly, smart smoke detectors like Google Nest Protect can send alerts to emergency contacts as well as sounding an alarm.
Telemedicine Platforms
Telemedicine systems improve access to health care services. In a recent study, the majority of seniors surveyed rated telemedicine highly and wanted access to it as a routine care option. Seeing a health professional becomes more convenient—and potentially safer, during inclement weather—with the ability to connect remotely. A tablet, computer, or wifi-enabled TV can be used for telemedicine sessions, as long as you have a good internet connection that allows for high-quality video.
Communication Tools
Smart technologies can also reduce social isolation. Tools like the GrandPad, which supports video calls, photo-sharing, and email messages, can help seniors stay in touch with loved ones. And the GrandPad improves security by allowing only trusted calls—no scams or solicitations.
Skylight Digital Photo Frame is another fun option for staying connected. It lets family members share new photos remotely.
When choosing technologies for your loved one’s home, look for simple, intuitive options. Invest in a tool that fills multiple purposes, so adopting these technologies won’t feel overwhelming. Or, select two or three user-friendly solutions.
By making use of these smart technologies, you can enhance your loved one’s quality of life. They can improve continuity of care by tracking your loved one’s health status and personal care choices. And through tools that track health and wellness, you’ll improve your own peace of mind. Combined with in-home care assistance from an elder care professional, they can help your loved one live as independently as possible.
Wondering if companion care is right for your loved one? Schedule a free nurse consultation call to discuss their needs.
