Smart Technology for Seniors and Family
Smart Technology for Seniors and Families
If you’re living with dementia or know someone who is, then this is for you! We are going to talk about different technology that can help with different aspects of daily life for those who are living with or caring for someone with dementia. Smart Care Technology is data-collecting sensors that allow seniors or family members to monitor and/or alert them of activities in the home. These can include Apps and devices for family members with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other conditions with memory loss.
Implementing smart home technology for elderly and disabled family members can make aging in place safer and more enjoyable. A sense of independence helps maintain a high quality of life, and children of elderly parents appreciate how quickly smart-home systems alert them to their parents’ needs.
Apps and Devices for People with Dementia – Wearable tech gives caregivers the ability to see where their loved one is at all times—no matter how far apart they are.
Managing and Monitoring Health – Apps can make it easier for seniors and caregivers to monitor and manage their health
A medicine reminder is a simple smartphone app, and one that can help manage numerous people’s medications thanks to multiple profiles. It also tracks your prescriptions and reminds you when it’s time for a refill. These simplify healthcare management, especially for patients who see multiple doctors.
Memory games and apps can boost cognitive function and memory—they really do make a difference. Some studies suggest that even searching the Internet or playing video games can improve brain function among seniors.
Encourages them to exercise – It can be difficult to get up and moving as a senior—and many factors contribute, from mobility issues to lack of access to classes. But technology can help. YouTube classes in everything from gentle yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates to more challenging disciplines bring exercise into seniors’ living rooms—and these are often taught by experienced instructors. Wii Fit offers bowling, yoga, aerobics and balance games, and more for people of all fitness levels.
Broadens communication. Sure, ideally we’d all live close enough to visit every day. But many seniors live far from their family members—and this can make it difficult to age where they are.
Loneliness is still an epidemic among seniors. Technologies such as Skype, Google Chat, and Facebook Live can help them connect with friends and family all over the world—no travel required. And even social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can make a difference in helping seniors feel connected to the lives of far-off loved ones.
In addition, tools such as heart rate monitors and step counters can help seniors track their own activity levels and stay motivated.
Some monitoring systems can be set up around a bed or throughout the house, alerting caregivers whenever an elderly person falls or goes outside of a defined boundary. This helps caregivers keep their loved ones safe from any distance.