No longer do seniors have to go at it alone. There are all types of assistive technology for older adults that are helping seniors live independently. Below, we explain some helpful devices that improve quality of life and safety for senior citizens.
Smart Medication Monitors
Medication mismanagement results in nearly 7,000 deaths per year, making it the fifth leading cause of death for senior citizens. Devices like smart pillboxes help seniors properly manage medication use. They use reminders, locks, dispensary methods, and phone calls to help.
1. Vitality GlowCaps: This Bluetooth-enabled cap replaces your standard pill bottle cap. When it’s time for your medication, the cap and its base station light up. It can also play music for an auditory reminder. If a dose is missed, the base station will call the user or caregiver’s phone. GlowCaps even take care of medication refill requests for you.
2. Tricella Pillbox: The Tricella Pillbox looks like a regular weekly pillbox but is much safer. It features built-in sensors and links to a smartphone app. The sensors detect whether you’ve taken your meds and track when you open a compartment. When meds are forgotten or taken improperly, the app notifies caregivers. This works best for those with smartphones or tablets.
GPS Tracking Devices for Seniors
Sixty percent of people who have dementia will wander. Not only is this stressful for caregivers, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. GPS tracking technology for seniors makes aging at home a little easier. There are a number of elderly GPS tracking devices out there, but here are two:
1. GPS Smart Sole: This piece of wearable technology for senior citizens slips inside your loved one’s shoes like an insert. You can use its locator app to set up a safe zone—like the backyard, house, and front yard. If your loved one exits the safe zone, you will receive a call or text letting you know.
2. Mindme Locate: This piece of technology for older adults looks like a key fob. Loved ones can carry it in their pocket or on a keychain. Its tracking information is available online for caregivers to view at any time.
Memory Assistance Devices for the Elderly
Whether your loved one suffers from dementia or occasional memory loss, Reminder Rosie can help. This alarm clock records and replays daily reminders. Simply record messages like “Mom, It’s time to take 2 blue pills and 1 white pill” or “Dad, it’s time to walk the dog.” The clock plays the reminder at the appropriate time.
Smart Detection Devices
Smart detection devices alert seniors of potential dangers within their home. They are ideal for those with memory difficulties or who fall asleep or get distracted in the middle of tasks. Your loved one might benefit form a smart stove alarm, smart smoke alarm, water leak detector, and even a bath overflow monitor.
Smartphones and Tablets
Although not exclusively made for seniors, handheld devices are helping seniors live independently. They help older adults stay connected and combat social isolation. Apps like Facebook and Skype are great for video calls and sharing photos. Seniors will also find hundreds of apps that can improve their memory, remind them of upcoming appointments, track their medication compliance, monitor their health, and keep them organized.
Wearable Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert technology makes it easier for injured loved ones to call for help if they fall or cannot reach the phone. You’ll find a wide variety of medical alert bracelets, watches, and pendants. In general, they feature fall detectors, locators, and a help button. Many local hospitals monitor these devices so that they’re ready to send help if needed.
Companies charge an outright fee for the device and a monthly fee for the service. When deciding which medial alert system is right for your loved one, think about their lifestyle and their medical needs.
With so many assistive devices for the elderly out there, living at home is now easier than ever for older adults. These devices make independent living a lot safer and less stressful too.