Technology is always changing as is how we use it. And seniors are front and center and benefiting from the ever changing trends. Year after year, the number of seniors who embrace new tech increases. According to a Pew Research study, over half of adults 65 and up are “online” and using new technology daily. Here are a few great pieces of technology that can be a great benefit to your senior loved ones.
Keeping in Touch
Keeping in Touch with loved ones is easier than ever with the help of technology. Programs like Skype and Facetime let seniors see their loved ones face to face letting them converse as if they were in the same room together. Social media sites like Facebook allow them to be in constant contact by sharing profiles and keeping up to date with loved ones by pictures and status updates.
Health Tracking
Pencil and paper reminders can be a thing of the past with the help of new technology. Apps like Pillboxie and Symple can help keep a digital trail of medical reminders and records. Caregivers can have peace of mind knowing (and overseeing) the medications their loved ones are taking.
Mental Stimulation
Brain Training – Keeping a sharp mind is a good thing for people of all ages. With the help of technology, it is easier than ever to keep a senior’s mind active. Websites like Luminosity and Braintraining101.com offer great and free ways to keep aging minds on their toes.
Stimulating Apps – Who doesn’t love a competitive game with friends? Words with Friends is similar to the classic board game Scrabble but without having to lug around a game board and tiles! Whether it’s a grandchild across town or a friend across the hall, this fun and addicting app will have seniors trying to outscore all their friends.
Easy Reading – Reading provides mental stimulation which has shown to slow Alzheimer’s and dementia. With the help of Digital E-readers like Kindle and Nook it’s easier than ever to gain knowledge with an endless library.
Assistive Technology
There are countless apps which can be of assistance in the daily lives of seniors. If you can dream the need, it probably already exists in the app stores. From Flashlights and Magnifying glasses to apps that will dictate spoken word into text, options are endless when it comes to making seniors daily lives easier.
Safety in the Home
Did you ever think it could be possible to keep an eye on your loved one without being there? Most seniors want to remain independent and in their home for as long as possible. With the help of new technology, they can remain in their home and you can have less worry and peace of mind. Solutions like the Samsung Smarthings Hub offer web-connected sensors that can be added throughout the house to alert you as your loved one goes about their day. For example, sensors can be added to things like the refrigerator or medicine cabinet doors. You will be alerted you that your loved one is up and making breakfast or taking their AM medications.
Transportation
Ride-sharing technology has been an incredible resource for seniors with no means of transportation or who no longer drive themselves. Companies like Uber and Lyft allow seniors the freedom to schedule their own outings or appointments whenever they wish. For seniors who aren’t completely comfortable navigating such apps themselves, both ride-sharing companies now allow 3rd party users to schedule their rides.
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