Assistive Technology to Help Seniors with Daily Activities

Roughly 77% of adults 50 and older prefer to age in place. Using assistive technologies like smart home devices, medication management tools and wearable gadgets makes it easier for your loved one to stay home and stay safe. The wide variety of apps, programs, software and portables allows your loved one to customize and automate their home to suit their needs. Learn about popular devices and how they can help your senior.

Smart Home Devices for a More Convenient Lifestyle

Voice-activated assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Home allow your loved one to control compatible devices, set reminders and make calls with spoken commands. There are a variety of technology hubs designed to complete daily tasks and centralize home automation, from turning on the lights in the morning to closing the blinds at night.

Smart security devices provide peace of mind. Video doorbells, motion sensor cameras and remote-controlled locks are effective safety features that send live updates to compatible devices and apps. That’s helpful if you’re unable to stop by your loved one’s home and want to check on them.

Wearable Technology for Health Monitoring and Safety

Blood pressure cuffs: Digital blood pressure cuffs provide automatic data logging by sending data from each reading to an app. That information allows their provider to track their progress over days, weeks and months.

Glucose monitors: Automatic readings are sent from a smart glucose monitor to an app or cloud-based platform. If your loved one has diabetes, they can set reminders to take insulin, too.

Pulse oximeters: Your senior can check their pulse rate and oxygen saturation and log that data on a compatible device.

Fall detection devices: Brands like Life Alert and Medical Guardian offer wearable devices like bracelets and necklaces that detect falls and send alerts to caregivers and emergency medical services.

Activity trackers: Apple watches and Fitbit trackers allow your loved one to record their exercise and caloric intake and achieve fitness goals.

Medication Management Tools for Seniors

If your loved one lives with a chronic condition, they may need to take multiple medications. Forgetting or doubling a dose presents serious health risks, but medication management tools can prevent your loved one from making those mistakes.

There are a variety of apps to help your senior stay on top of their medication schedule through scheduled reminders and alerts. Some apps also track the time and dose of each medication, too. Smart pill dispensers deliver the appropriate medication at a set time and offer locking features to prevent double-dosing.

Mobility Aids and Assistive Devices for Enhanced Independence

Canes and walkers: If your loved one has balance or mobility issues, an assistive walking device can help them move safely. Some even have smart technology like fall detection to alert designated contacts.

Electric wheelchairs: Using an electric wheelchair or scooter lets your senior move around their home efficiently, so they can maintain their independence.

Stair lifts: Navigating a multi-story home could be treacherous for older adults. A stair lift bypasses the steps, decreasing your loved one’s fall risk.

Lift chairs: Ergonomic chairs give an extra boost to get your loved one up from a seated position. They also make it easier to sit down without straining joints.

Grabber tools: This type of tool eliminates the need to stretch or bend over to reach an object, reducing your senior’s fall risk.

Automatic openers: If opening cans and jars is a hassle for your loved one, an automatic opener offers a hands-free solution.

Entertainment and Learning Apps for Mental Stimulation

Staying mentally active is vital for maintaining your loved one’s cognitive health. Aside from the practical benefits, technology delivers a wealth of entertainment and education options to keep your senior sharp. There are countless apps for games and streaming that allow your senior to select their desired entertainment.

Some options include:

• Audible: There are thousands of books and podcasts to cater to different tastes for those who like to listen instead of read.
• Duolingo: The game-like lessons help users learn a different language by building their vocabulary and reading skills.
• YouTube: Your loved one will find endless content on YouTube, from educational videos to documentaries to cooking shows.
• Lumosity: The daily brain training games on Lumosity are designed to enhance problem-solving skills, attention span and memory formation.

Well-Rounded At-Home Healthcare from Ohioans

We’re committed to helping your loved one live life on their terms in the comfort of their home. Our customizable at-home skilled nursing services are designed with your senior’s needs in mind. Contact us to learn more and schedule a consultation.