How Technology Can Help Seniors Living Alone
As a caregiver, many different questions and concerns pop up. Do you have an aging parent living alone? Do you wonder if they would be better off in a retirement home? You know you cannot be everywhere all at once but choosing the best options for ensuring your elderly parent’s wellbeing is much easier than it used to be. Before, you had to move them into your home or a nursing home. Now, your mother or father can stay in their home safely with some help from technology and a professional senior caregiver.
5 Gadgets to Help Your Senior Live at Home
When you want to give your loved one every opportunity to age in place, look at what technology offers. You may be surprised that the same gadgets you love to use can help Mom and Dad live at home alone:
- Tablets and Smartphones: One word may summarize the best part of these two devices—touchscreen. The touchscreen on tablets and smartphones makes it much easier for Mom to navigate and operate. Another aspect is the plethora of apps geared toward healthier living, especially for seniors. For example, Mom can play games to keep her mind sharp. Dad can take photos and videos. There are apps to track medication and medical history. Don’t forget social media avenues to stay in touch with family and friends.
- Fitness Tracking Devices: You may have one on your wrist to check your heart rate and track steps taken. These types of tools gather valuable information that can help your aging parent’s doctor when treating them.
- In-Home Monitoring Systems: Different sensors around Dad’s home can monitor his daily habits without needing to set up cameras. Different habits can be tracked from afar and give you peace of mind that you will be notified if something is amiss. For instance, using sensors under bedsheets can show how well (or not) he is sleeping.
- Emergency Response Systems: These devices have become more accurate and discreet. Some are enabled with GPS, so even if something happens while out on errands, help will be on its way. If Mom or Dad falls, the device can automatically alert emergency services.
- Medication Dispensers and Reminders: One area that cannot be forgotten is that of medications. Aging adults often have different medicines for a myriad of ailments. Keeping up with them can be challenging. Technology has stepped in with devices that not only remind Mom to take her pills but will also dispense it.
Keep Mom and Dad at Home with a Professional Caregiver
It’s possible to encourage your loved one to live at home for as long as possible when you utilize technology and the services of a senior caregiver. Home Instead Etobicoke / North York has well-trained caregivers ready to ensure Mom and Dad get the support they require. Look to us for services that make life easier, such as cooking meals, light housekeeping, companionship, personal care. We tailor the home care services around the needs of your family. Contact us today for more information.
Call us at (416) 239-2200 to schedule a no-obligation, in-home consultation. Learn more about the compassionate, quality senior care we deliver every day, to families in All Etobicoke including: Kingsway, Mimico, Long Branch, Islington, Richview, The Community of Humber Heights, Rexdale, Markland Woods North York West including: Willowdale, Rexdale, Downsview, Humberwood, Weston, York University Heights, Humber Summit and areas in between..