It’s hard to remember what life was like prior to the invention of smartphones, televisions, computers, and other types of technology. We have become accustomed to being connected with family and friends at a moments notice. Although it may be easy for
It’s hard to remember what life was like prior to the invention of smartphones, televisions, computers, and other types of technology. We have become accustomed to being connected with family and friends at a moments notice. Although it may be easy for young adults and children to adopt the latest technology, it is often harder for older adults to become acquainted with these electronics.
While your grandparents or parents may not be technologically knowledgeable, it’s important to help them become familiar with various types of electronics to help them stay connected with family and friends. We have compiled a list of 10 types of technology that can be used to keep seniors or older adults safe at home and connected to their grandchildren.
Internet & WI-Fi
Talk with your grandparents about investing in a modem, router, and the Internet. This will help keep you updated about new or existing medical issues with your family member. In addition, the Internet will help keep your grandmother or grandfather updated about family events, life achievements, and world news.
Hearing aids have become more affordable and technologically advanced. With the constant improvement of wireless transmission, hearing aids are continually becoming smaller and easier to use. This type of technology is engineered to enhance the mental and physical awareness of senior citizens.
Having a phone is crucial for emergency situations. With the latest advancements in software and hardware, smartphones are now easier for senior citizens and older adults to learn. If a parent or grandparent is struggling to use their phone, we recommend increasing the font size to make it easier to absorb information. This type of technology includes a variety of useful features that may be useful to the elderly such as text messaging, GPS, and the Internet.
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iPad & Tablet
Tablets are so versatile, and they are especially great for seniors and older adults. This type of electronic makes it easy to view family photos, read books, watch videos, or read the news. Investing in an iPad or Android tablet is an excellent way to provide mental stimulation for a family member with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Skype, FaceTime, & Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is a type of technology that makes it easy for the elderly to stay connected with long-distance family members. Video conferencing also provides you with an easy way to engage in face-to-face conversations with a family member.
There are many types of games and activities available on the Nintendo Wii, Xbox, and computer that are designed to provide mental stimulation and social interaction for seniors.
Assistive technology including mobility devices, motion sensor lighting, automatic stove shut-off systems, and medication dispensers are an excellent way to keep the elderly safe while they are living at home.
GPS is available on apps that come standard on most phones. This type of technology is also available to purchase in stores. A GPS system is especially important for older adults with memory loss due to Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. This technology is essential for locating someone if they are in an emergency situation away from their home or care facility.
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Home Monitoring Devices
These monitoring devices use sensors to detect emergencies within the home, such as falls or unusual behavior. These electronics make it easier for seniors or older adults to live at home with the external support they need in an emergency situation.
Health Tracking Software
Health apps allow older adults to monitor their health in one place. Medication reminders and nutritional reminders allow them to take control of their health. Caregivers appreciate this one as well.
Although investing in the latest technology is a beneficial way to keep the eldery safe at home, the latest electronics for sale on the market are unable to prevent various types of emergencies from happening such as tripping, choking, and heart attacks. If you’re worried about your mother or father living at home, give the staff at Terra Vista a call by phone at (630) 534-0886. The team at our memory care facility are trained to care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
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