Technology For Seniors And The Caregivers That Love Them
October 15, 2020
There are millions of us caring for aging loved ones. And it’s often a stressful labor of love. But, the technology available now has made it easier on us than our parents and grandparents had it when they had to do the same. If your senior has yet to jump headfirst into the digital world, it’s time to start. The following tips and technologies can help ease them into it while easing your mind.
Digital Security
Before you acclimate yourself or your senior loved one to technology, it’s crucial that everyone understand digital security. This applies particularly to seniors who will spend more time online as they learn to navigate the internet. There are plenty of digital safety articles available, and they can help you help your loved one stay guarded against cybercriminals, identity theft, and online bullying.
Activity Tracking
When you think of an activity tracker, a watch probably comes to mind. But, fortunately, this is not the only option available. Seniors who utilize a walker will benefit from a WalkWise attachment and membership. This nonintrusive device can keep you abreast of your loved one’s activities and, more importantly, can send you an immediate alert should their walker wind up in a position that may indicate a fall. This is crucial in helping you maintain a watchful eye on your loved one when you can’t be there.
There are millions of us caring for aging loved ones. And it’s often a stressful labor of love. But, the technology available now has made it easier on us than our parents and grandparents had it when they had to do the same. If your senior has yet to jump headfirst into the digital world, it’s time to start. The following tips and technologies can help ease them into it while easing your mind.
Digital Security
Before you acclimate yourself or your senior loved one to technology, it’s crucial that everyone understand digital security. This applies particularly to seniors who will spend more time online as they learn to navigate the internet. There are plenty of digital safety articles available, and they can help you help your loved one stay guarded against cybercriminals, identity theft, and online bullying.
Activity Tracking
When you think of an activity tracker, a watch probably comes to mind. But, fortunately, this is not the only option available. Seniors who utilize a walker will benefit from a WalkWise attachment and membership. This nonintrusive device can keep you abreast of your loved one’s activities and, more importantly, can send you an immediate alert should their walker wind up in a position that may indicate a fall. This is crucial in helping you maintain a watchful eye on your loved one when you can’t be there.
Per statistics cited by Griswold Home Care, seniors are seen in the emergency room every 11 seconds for falling accidents and, sadly, the disproportionate number of deaths in the elderly due to falls means that a related fatality occurs every 19 minutes.
Senior-Friendly Websites
When communication is essential with your loved one, make sure they are up to date on the latest websites that help them do just that. Facebook is one excellent example, and it’s no secret that those over age 65 are quickly taking over this social media platform. More than just social media, however, other websites, including the AARP and Pogo, are excellent places for seniors to find pertinent information as well as fun and games.
Smart Home Accessories
Smart home devices, appliances, and accessories have gotten a lot of attention throughout the last five years or so. These are things, like speakers, thermostats, and lights, that automate many processes within the home. Furthermore, a smart home hub, such as the Google Home, can help seniors make voice-activated phone calls. They can digitally drop in on friends and family, and, as a caregiver, you can check on them without having to make the drive to their home.
A smart refrigerator is a slightly larger investment than any of the above, but it’s one way that you can monitor your seniors’ nutrition without constantly asking them if they have eaten. A smart fridge can be accessed from anywhere via your mobile device. Similarly, a digital security system may be logged into remotely and will help you put eyes on your parents or grandparents. You can also monitor who is at the door using a video-enabled doorbell, and motion-activated exterior lights can keep your loved one’s doorway, driveway, and entrances well lit if they need to enter or exit the home after dusk.
While it’s still difficult to care for an aging loved one, even if you live next door, technology puts you that much closer when you can’t physically be there. Whether it’s chatting online via Facebook or simply checking to make sure they have milk and eggs, technology is a blessing bestowed upon us by the 21st century. Let it work for you, and don’t be afraid to suggest any of the above to the seniors you love.
This blog was guest written by: Mary Shannon from seniorsmeet.org