Leaving the family home can be difficult. Our homes are where our best memories are often made and an environment where we have felt secure and comfortable for many years. For this reason, the transition to an elderly care environment can be difficult for some, and when possible, elders will stay in their homes with assistance for as long as they can. Many people elect to hire professional caregivers to help with the tasks that a senior is unable to manage on his/her own. Fortunately, innovators are now devising new elderly care technology to support seniors within their own homes.
The Technology Available to Seniors & Caregivers
Companies across the industry are working on modernizing senior care through technology to streamline communication between caregivers and seniors and work to keep seniors safe within their homes. Some of the new elderly care technology being developed for caregiver use now includes the following.
Wearable Devices
Wearables and sensors can monitor a senior’s physical condition and transmit information to a caregiver. Some of the information caregivers and medical professionals can access through remote monitoring devices include blood pressure, vital signs, heart rate, and more. Whether a caregiver is a family member or a professional, the wearables can signal early signs of concern. Some of the wearable devices that support seniors include the following:
- Sensors in prescription pill dispensers can monitor when medication is taken so that a caregiver knows the medication is being taken regularly.
- GPS systems that track a senior’s movements come in different forms. A pendant that acts as a personal emergency response system has been around for quite some time. Fitness technology, such as watches or shoe soles, can be equipped with real-time health monitoring technology and GPS that send messages or indicate location (such as the GPS SmartSole). When a senior is still actively going out on his/her own, this is a useful tool for family members in case of emergency.
- Sensors installed on refrigerators or keys can alert caregivers if seniors are eating meals irregularly or away from home.
Assistive Devices
Seniors can struggle with routine physical or mental tasks, so assistance is a primary focus of new technologies. Many devices can help seniors with motor-related tasks. For example, canes and shoes that use fall detection can help seniors regain balance. Devices with voice activation, such as alarm clocks or tablets (like the GrandPad), can help seniors with their fine motor skills.
One of the more significant advancements in elderly care technology is a variety of devices that provide cognitive assistance. Computer programs engage seniors and help improve cognitive abilities. Examples include games designed to help maintain the memories of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or various forms of dementia. Smart devices, such as the Amazon Echo Dot, can keep track of medications, appointments, and other details to give the needed mental care and assistance to seniors living independently in their homes.
Socialization through Video
Interpersonal engagement is vital for seniors but is more difficult for older adults whose families live far away and seniors with transportation difficulties. Many technological advancements have addressed this issue and are helping seniors stay connected with friends and loved ones.
Elderly care technology available through industry leaders helps lessen the caregiving burden on family members and helps caregivers create a supportive and safe environment in which seniors can thrive. These new devices help seniors who want to stay at home and provide some peace of mind to family members who either act as caregivers themselves or communicate with professional caregivers hired to assist and support the seniors.
Contact Neighborly Home Care for In Home Care Services
To give your senior loved ones the best care possible, contact Neighborly Home Care. Neighborly Home Care’s team will work with you to meet all of your loved ones’ caregiving needs. Our caregivers are highly qualified and experienced in providing quality elder care services and solutions, such as disability care, respite care, and in-home care. We encompass all of your loved ones’ needs while maintaining their sense of independence and peace. For more information on our senior care services or how elderly care technology can help your loved ones, contact us today.