Tapping into Technology: Ways Older Adults Can Use Technology to Live Better
Technology is constantly evolving.
When used by seniors, technology can be transformative in helping anyone who wants to live more independently and stay healthy in both mind and body. Wearable health monitors, user-friendly communication devices, and medical appointments with a physician over a phone or computer are just a few of the many technologies that older adults can use to contribute to their overall well-being.
What are some helpful devices for seniors, and what do they do?
Tech devices are evolving all the time, becoming ever more fascinating, informative, helpful, and reassuring…they run the gamut and are changing the world of possibilities for everyone, including older adults.
Voice-activated assistants
Known as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, many people use these regularly, really without a second thought. The fact is that while they’re a convenience for most, they can make life much easier for seniors. Devices like Alexa are voice-activated, making them easy to access without having to get up, push buttons or scroll. They can give weather reports, share breaking news, tell jokes, answer questions and provide information about almost any topic. They can also set timers, play games and music, give reminders (such as medication), make calls and send texts, enabling you to visit with family and friends.
Smartphones and tablets
With a smartphone and the right app, there’s little that can’t be done:
- call and send texts
- order food, or virtually any other item you want, to be delivered to your door
- access transportation (Uber, Lyft, etc.)
- access meal delivery
- do banking
- pay bills
- monitor health, activities, whereabouts, etc.
- provide entertainment (watching movies, TV shows or podcasts)
- play games
- get updated on the latest news
- receive alerts for bad weather
The list goes on and on.
Tablets can do everything that a smartphone can do, with the important addition of serving as an e-reader. Tablets can store a library’s worth of eBooks and give the reader access to bold text and a backlit screen for easier reading. This is great for enjoyment and cognitive function.
Home technology
This encompasses voice-controlled devices within the home, such as smart lights, thermostats, and locks. This technology can help older adults navigate their homes more safely and conveniently.
Smart sensors, such as FIBAR, ‘learn’ familiarity with daily routines and can monitor the home, providing alerts of unusual activity.
Camera doorbells can alert homeowners, caregivers, or family members of activity at the door, providing security.
Wearable health monitors
Devices like Fitbit, Apple Watch, and medical-grade wearables can help seniors keep track of important health information, including heart rate, oxygen levels, sleep, and steps. They can provide insights and accountability for an older adult to keep moving. Devices can also instill friendly competition with friends or relatives also wearing the devices.
Telemedicine
Keeping in touch with one’s doctor is vital for good health. A study showed that older adults are more likely to select medical providers that have the ability to utilize audio or video telehealth. Being able to meet with a doctor digitally eliminates some barriers—such as geographical location or a disability—that may keep some older adults from attending a doctor’s visit.
Medication management
One study shows that 50% of older adults have challenges when it comes to taking medications. Apps and devices are available to remind older adults to take their medications and dispense the correct dosage at set times.
Medical alert systems
Electronic devices are available to connect older adults with emergency services at the press of a button. This allows them to remain at home or on the go.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that falls are a major cause of injuries among older adults. Some wearable devices include sensors that can detect falls and automatically contact emergency services if the person wearing the device does not respond. Even some canes and walkers come equipped with built-in features such as GPS tracking and fall detection
Social connections
Mayo Clinic and other health organizations have found that social connections are crucial for healthy aging. Some devices for video calling are specifically designed to make them easy to use. AARP reports that platforms like Facebook and Zoom also help older adults stay connected with family and friends.
Institution Robotics has developed a care companion robot boasting proactive cognitive AI. It initiates conversations to help offset loneliness. Joy for All is a company that has created robotic pets to help foster meaningful connections.
Technology is no longer just about convenience. It is increasingly an essential partner in supporting independence, safety, health, and connection for older adults. From wearable devices that monitor well-being to voice assistants that bring both practical help and companionship, today’s innovations are opening new doors for seniors to live more confidently and fully. Embracing these tools allows older adults to not only keep pace with a changing world but to thrive in it.
At Hayes Barton Place, we embrace technology within our teams to provide the very best and latest cutting-edge care for and communication with our residents. Additionally, we make sure that our residents have access to assistance learning about and integrating their own use of technology into their daily lives.