Essential Tech for Older Adults

The idea of aging in place is appealing to many. Thanks to certain devices, this has become a safe and realistic option. 

Embracing technology can open up a world of benefits, helping older adults enjoy greater independence and a better quality of life. Staying connected also becomes much easier, which is important for both social and safety reasons. If you want to live independently or support your loved one’s decision to do so, learn about these six essential devices and technologies. 

1. Smartphones and Tablets

Smartphones and tablets are necessary to use some of the other technologies and devices on this list. Many smartphones have user-friendly features, like large screens and simplified interfaces. Here are some of the best models for older adults: 

• iPhone: The iPhone is an advanced smartphone with a wide range of accessibility features. For example, enabling Assistive Access can make iPhones easier to use. 
• Jitterbug Smart4: This smartphone is specifically designed for seniors, with features like an easy-to-navigate menu, an Urgent Response button and a powerful speaker. 

Tablets can also be a fantastic alternative to computers, offering bigger screens for video calls, emails, social networks and games. While any iPad will do, the GrandPad is a great option for those who want a device created for older individuals. For example, as phone scams often target older adults, this tablet blocks spam and spam calls. 

2. Smart Home Technology

Smart home technologies are one of the most essential home assistive devices for seniors. You can choose to buy them separately, such as a smart speaker like Amazon Echo or Google Nest. Or, you can opt for a bundle, which could include extras like smart lighting and thermostats. 

Smart speakers pair with smartphones to provide weather updates, set reminders, send texts, make calls, play music and much more. Plus, they come with voice-activated assistants, like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This means that instead of having to swipe or tap, one could say, “Alexa, remind me to take my medication at 7 p.m.” or “Hey Google, call my daughter.” For those who find technology tricky or have dexterity challenges, a smart speaker can be a game changer — especially when they need help.  

Investing in additional smart home devices can allow voice-activated assistants to take on even more tasks. You or your loved one will be able to control things such as lighting and the temperature with just a few simple voice commands, helping create a safe and comfortable home environment. 

3. Smart Safety and Security Systems

Beyond helping prevent break-ins, these security systems allow one to stay informed about what’s happening at home. As part of their smart home system, older adults can add smart devices like: 

• Sensors: These devices learn people’s routines and monitor their homes. As smart sensors send out alerts if something seems out of the ordinary, they can allow seniors and their families to feel more at ease. 
• Doorbells: Thanks to cameras and two-way speakers, these doorbells allow people to interact with visitors without opening the door. Beyond being convenient, especially for older adults with limited mobility, smart doorbells provide an added layer of security. When paired with smart locks, one can also lock or unlock the door via a smartphone or tablet.
• Smoke detectors: Unlike traditional ones, smart smoke detectors send alerts straight to people’s phones and trigger an alarm in the house. Some of them can help detect carbon monoxide, too. 
• Stoves and ovens: These appliances turn off automatically after five minutes of not being used, helping prevent kitchen fires. If you or your loved one accidentally leaves a smart stove or oven on, it will send an alert — one can also control these appliances remotely. 

4. Fitness and Health Tracking Devices

Fitness trackers are wearable devices that can help older adults monitor their activity, helping ensure they get enough exercise. The Fitbit and Apple Watch are two popular fitness watches that connect to wearers’ smartphones, tracking how many steps they take in a day and how many calories they burn. 

Additionally, fitness and health tracking for seniors offers information about metrics like blood pressure, heart rate and blood oxygen levels. With insight into their vital metrics, older adults can feel more empowered to take charge of their health and fitness. For example, if someone notices their blood pressure is increasing, they can change their diet. Those with underlying health conditions can also monitor their progress and ensure they stay within safe limits when exercising. 

5. Medical Alert Systems

For those who choose not to live at facilities offering senior care or retirement communities, this technology is particularly important. Medical alert systems are wearable devices designed to keep older adults safe, both when they’re at home and on the go.

By wearing a discreet pendant around the neck or wrist, you or your loved one can easily access 24/7 help. Wearers simply need to press a button, and they’ll be connected to a trained operator. 

As we age, the risk of falling increases, as does the likelihood of fall-related challenges. If a fall does happen, older adults must get medical help right away. Thankfully, some medical alert systems offer advanced features like fall detection, so even if someone lives alone, they can still get the care they need.

6. Mobile and Smartphone Applications

Mobile apps are programs that run on a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch. While some come preinstalled, others must be downloaded from Google Play or the Apple App Store. 

Video Chatting and Social Media

Video chatting and social media for seniors are essential to help them connect with loved ones. Fee video call apps like Zoom and FaceTime allow one to chat with friends and family and see their faces, even if they live miles away. From catching up with one’s grandkids to hosting a virtual book club, video chatting makes it much easier for older adults to keep important connections strong. 

Additionally, Facebook and Instagram are popular social media apps where people upload photos and videos, making it possible to share special moments. They’re a great way to stay updated on what’s happening in one’s community and social circles in between video or phone calls. 

Health and Wellness

In addition to staying connected, alder adults can use apps to support their health:

• Medication: One can easily keep track of medications, supplements and vitamins via the Health app on the iPhone or iPad. For those with an Apple Watch, the Medications app makes it simple to log meds and set reminders so you or your loved one never misses a dose. 
• Health records: With the Health app, all health records can be stored in one handy location. 
• Mental well-being: Headspace is a mental health app that provides guided meditations, mindfulness exercises and sleep tools. Meditation can be a wonderful way to reduce stress, especially since older adults can feel its effects more strongly. 

Entertainment 

Plenty of internet and online platforms for seniors offer hours of entertainment: 

• Games: Apps like Luminosity and Peak provide fun brain challenges that stimulate various areas of the mind, making them perfect for seniors looking to stay active and engaged. Plus, digital crossword puzzles and sudoku are fantastic for boosting critical thinking and concentration. 
• Movies and TV shows: From Netflix to Amazon Prime, streaming platforms make it possible for older adults to watch their favorite movies or shows on demand.
• Audio: Spotify lets one listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks. Beyond offering access to millions of songs in different genres, from jazz to classical, this app is also perfect for bookworms facing challenges with their eyesight. 

Get In-Home Support From Village Caregiving

Technology and devices for seniors provide 24/7 connection, offer entertainment, help ensure safety and assist with everyday tasks. While these are incredible tools, they can’t replace human care. Village Caregiving is here to step in, offering in-home support services in areas where technology may fall short, such as companionship, housekeeping and bathing. 

Whether transporting you or your loved one to purchase a smartphone or setting up new gadgets like a smart speaker, our family caregivers are dedicated to going the extra mile. With a mix of essential technology and in-home care, older adults can age in place comfortably and safely. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you!