Smart Solutions for Caregivers: Tools to Enhance Senior Care
It is estimated that there are 53 million Americans, that amounts to one in five, assisting their older relatives, spouses, friends or neighbors with daily tasks such as cooking, showering or dressing. Being a caregiver can be a stressful job, but fortunately, a range of technologies exists that are designed to make that job easier while providing support to older adults, and increasing their safety, communication and quality of life.
Here are some of those technologies that can help older Americans age safely and as independently as possible:
Safety and Monitoring Technologies
Medical alert systems, such as Lifeline or Medical Guardian are wearable devices that contact emergency assistance with the press of a button.
Fall detection sensors, such as Apple Watch or fall detection necklaces, alert caregivers in case of a fall.
GPS trackers, such as AngelSense or Jiobit track the location of seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Smart home monitoring like CarePredict or Lively can track movement, doors opening or closing and appliance activity.
Health and Wellness Management
Medication management, such as automatic pill dispensers like MedMinder or Hero, helps ensure timely medication.
Telehealth platforms include apps and devices, such as Teladoc or CallonDoc, that allow virtual consultations with healthcare providers.
Wearable Health Monitors
These are devices such as Fitbit and Withings that monitor vital signs, including heart rate and sleep patterns, and can raise an alert of a possible health issue.
Communication Tools
Video calling devices like the Amazon Echo Show or GrandPad, allow older adults to stay in touch with family and caregivers.
Voice assistants
These include devices like Google Nest or Amazon Alexa that can provide reminders, play music, or assist with daily routines.
Transportation and Mobility
Ride-sharing services, including apps like Uber Health or GoGoGrandparent, cater specifically to older adults who need rides to appointments, to grocery shop or to do other errands.
Mobility aids with smart features include walkers or wheelchairs with built-in GPS and emergency alert systems.
Cognitive Support
Memory aid apps like MindMate or RemindMeCare help with cognitive exercises and daily organization.
Companion robots
There are devices such as ElliQ or Jibo that engage seniors in conversation and activities and provide reminders.
Household Management
Smart home devices include thermostats, lights, and door locks that can be controlled remotely to better ensure safety and comfort.
Meal delivery services like Silver Cuisine or MagicKitchen deliver senior-friendly meals.
Technology Eases Responsibilities
Technology cannot replace the compassion and dedication of a caregiver, but it can ease responsibilities and provide peace of mind. By embracing these tools, caregivers can support their loved ones in living more safely, independently and with a higher quality of life.