Sometimes we think technology cannot really benefit us in the senior healthcare arena. However with partnerships developing in technology with senior care, we are about to see the rise of something new. Are you ready?

Technology Advances to Help with Senior Care

• • HEY ALEXA. Amazon Alexa will help with senior care more than we realize. You can set times for medication reminders, check the weather, check the date, ask a buddy for help, and manage lists that go on all your devices. Not only is Alexa helpful in senior care with reminders and quick facts, but it is a place to play games for memory care and read newly released books or listen to music on your tablet. Alexa will be a frontrunner in helping seniors stay connected and in the know of the latest from news, music, exercise, games and books.
  • Telehealth here we go. Seniors who want their independence just a little longer can reap the benefits of Telehealth. You can real time conference with your doctor or nurse to get information or ask questions about vitals or medications. For example, a diabetic patient can track their diet easily and submit it to their healthcare provider with a simple click of the mouse. Telehealth has many attributes that help adult children help manage their aging parents while giving their parents freedom.
  • GPS where are you? Thankfully GPS has been around for awhile and continues to get more and more sophisticated. Over 50% of seniors with Alzheimers or some other form of dementia tend to wander off. The accuracy of finding them with GPS is outstanding. The ability to put GPS in shoes or clothing is greatly improved and it will allow you to locate a loved one who become disoriented and gets lost. You should not forget the value of GPS when they are are out and about and need directions.
  • Phone Apps have come a long way. There are many apps to help monitor medication, heart rate, location (as discussed above) and communication to medical experts or family. Not only are the apps helpful to seniors, but also caregivers. It is easy to quickly send information through a simple app and make sure that medication and care is spot on. Also there are apps for entertainment or brain health to keep you going.
  • Online Medication Purchasing. With many seniors taking up to five medications, the ability to purchase online saves time and money for everyone. However, another concern with medications is the disbursement of the wrong medications or too many or not enough medications. So how can technology help? There are smart pill bottles that contact doctors or pharmacies on how often the medication is taken or if they do not take their meds an alarm will sound to remind them. Technology is rapidly evolving to assist seniors with medication management.

Try these technology advances to keep up with the cutting edge on how technology can make your life better and keep you healthy as you age. Technology has come along way and it will continue to improve and help seniors and caregivers with everyday medical and living needs. Do you need more tips on aging care for you or your loved ones? Contact Ann at Senior Living Options today. She will help you with your aging needs every step of the way.

Author: Ann Jamison

Ann Jamison is an experienced senior advisor who has successfully worked with hundreds of families to help them find the best care and home-like environment for themselves or their loved ones. Prior to launching Senior Living Options, Ann was an eldercare advisor for a national placement agency and served as sales director at a senior living community. Thanks to her 25-year career in advertising sales and marketing, Ann is able to discern between hype and reality for her clients. Ann recognizes that there are objective factors that need to be weighed when making a life-changing decision, but she can also assess the important softer attributes by getting to know her clients and by using the gut instincts that can only come through extended experience.