Tools & Technology to Keep Seniors Independent

These days, more and more seniors are opting to age in place in their own homes. This is possible due to the variety of tools and tech that are available to keep seniors independent. Some of these tools/tech are:

It’s important to note that tech doesn’t always mean electronics. There are lots of tools/gadgets that don’t require tech skills that can help seniors live independently. These gadgets can be a lifesaver- not just for the seniors but for their families as well.

At Gentle Shepherd Home Care, we are here to help you live independently for as long as possible. We provide a variety of services to meet your needs and we only hire caregivers that we would trust with our own loved ones.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the tools and tech available to keep seniors independent.

Below, we’ll explore the top 5 gadgets for seniors who wish to remain independent:

Since they debuted in the 19th century, phones have been through some significant advancements. Today, our phones are with us all the time and most of us can barely remember life without them. Research shows that 91% of seniors have a cell phone, and 53% of those have a smartphone.

Whether you keep it simple with a flip phone or go with a top-of-the-line smartphone, seniors can use these devices to chat with friends and family, browse social media, and keep up with the news. Plus, you can use them to take pictures of your grand babies and pets to share.

Tablets are perfect for seniors who enjoy entertainment. The larger screen is ideal for reading, browsing social media, watching videos, and playing brain games. In fact, some tablets are designed specifically for seniors- but these typically only have basic features.

If you like to read, an e-reader may be your best option. You can store hundreds of books on them so that everywhere you go, you have your library with you. The larger text and backlit screen make it easier on your eyes. Plus, since they are smaller and lighter than most books, you don’t have to worry about wrist fatigue. Finally, many are waterproof so that you can read while you’re lounging by the pool or soaking in the bathtub.

For seniors who desire health insights and accountability, fitness trackers are a great thing to have. Many can also be used as a wristwatch and can be paired to your phone so you can get your text messages or take calls. Most of them are waterproof and track your heart rate, sleep, count your steps, and so much more. If you want to engage in some friendly competition, share your progress and compete with your friends on the app.

Seniors who want to age in place might want to consider getting a medical alert device, especially if they live alone. These devices range from basic to high-tech and can keep you safe whether you are at home or on the go. Simply wear a pendant around your neck or on your wrist and you have help 24/7. When you push the button, you are connected to a call center where you can speak to someone who can dispatch the help you need.

Some of the high-tech models have fall detection, activity monitoring, caregiver integration, and companion apps. The equipment can be purchased for a one-time fee and you often pay a monthly monitoring fee- which is well worth it for the protection and peace of mind they provide.

Smart home devices, such as smart speakers, video doorbells, and smart sensors offer automation, convenience, and safety for seniors living alone. These devices can be purchased as a bundle or individually and should be used along with a smartphone to get the most from them. These include Google Home, Siri, and Alexa.

If you or a loved one is getting older and wants to age in place, consider these gadgets to help. Of course, nothing can beat the personal touch of an in-home caregiver from Gentle Shepherd Home Care. We only hire the best caregivers- those that we would trust to care for our own loved ones.