4 Tech Aids for Senior Caregivers

The aging population is steadily increasing in the United States, and so too are the challenges that come with caring for this growing population. In just one decade, one in every five people will be an elderly individual aged 65 and older, and by 2034, the elderly population will outnumber the youth population for the first time. In contrast, caregivers are far less common, and technological aids can help bridge that gap.

There is a wide selection of tech aids for both seniors and their caregivers that can make daily life easier. Here are a few of them.

Medical Alert Systems

Medical alert systems have made big technological strides in the last few decades. With the incorporation of sensors and mobile technology, for instance, senior protection has become stronger and more reliable, which comes as a huge relief to caregivers.

Home Systems

Home-based medical alert systems are beneficial for both seniors and caregivers because it provides an emergency lifeline in the most critical moments. A senior can instantly access an operator to be connected with a loved one or emergency services — depending on their needs — all with the press of a button or a voice command. This capability can bring great peace of mind to the caregiver who cannot be present at all hours of the day.

Wearable Devices

Wearable medical alert system devices with cellular technology have expanded capabilities, such as GPS trackers, fall detection sensors, and two-way calling features. These devices also may connect to a caregiver app so caregivers can view activity logs and location information no matter where they or their loved one may be. These tracking options can also provide alerts directly to the caregiver if a loved one travels beyond a certain doorway or predetermined boundary.

Voice Assisted Platforms

Voice assisted technology is becoming more widely available in the home and on the go. Google, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft all offer hands-free, voice-assisted technology via smartphones and home speaker devices requiring nothing more than voice commands. These platforms are useful for a variety of tasks and benefits, including the following:

• Easily set up reminders and alarms.
• Connect to other smart technology in the home, enabling a caregiver or senior to turn on lights and other electronics.
• Communication through voice or video calls between caregiver and loved one when apart.
• Entertainment options for caregiver or senior through music, books, information, weather, and more.
• Greater connection between family and friends, and technology, to reduce isolation.

Medication Devices

Medication management devices can help keep a senior’s medication schedule in order whether or not a caregiver is physically present. Caregivers can be reassured that their loved one’s medication is taken in the right doses and at the right time, whether from reminders and timers or an electronic dispenser.

Reminders and Timers

Tech devices such as reminders, timers, and alarms can help caregivers keep track of when their loved one’s next medication dose is due. These devices may be set to specific times of day, or an interval of time to customize the dosing schedule for individual medications. When a caregiver is gone, the reminders and timers continue working and helping a senior stay on track.

Electronic Pillbox

Though more expensive than a traditional pillbox, an electronic pillbox is a valuable aid for seniors and caregivers because it has medication reminders built into the same unit that stores the medication. These devices include flashing lights for a visual alarm, as well as loud beeps in repeating intervals until the medication is taken.

Smartphone Apps

There is a vast array of smartphone apps via iOS or Android platforms and many of them are dedicated to health. However, health tracking apps have narrowed down even further and many are now designed specifically for caregivers. These apps allow a caregiver to store information such as medical history, doctors’ names and contact information, medication lists and schedules, health conditions and journals, sharing capabilities with other caregivers and loved ones, and more.

Telemedicine apps are another benefit to caregivers as they can arrange telehealth appointments for their loved ones for minor health complaints or specialty areas without having to leave home. This is especially beneficial for seniors who have mobility issues, or those who live far from a doctor’s office. Telehealth services are sometimes included in health insurance plans and are a convenient way for a senior to get the care they need with less hassle on senior and caregiver.

Assistive technology is continuously improving and evolving, becoming more affordable, user-friendly, and helpful to the aging population. Caregivers now have more tools than ever before as they navigate the challenges of caring for their loved ones.