5 Benefits of Technology for Older Adults

May 3, 2023

Aging in place and retaining independence are important to many seniors. Incorporating technology into your loved one’s daily life can help them maintain their physical, mental, emotional and social well-being.

#1: Improving Communication

FaceTime, Skype and Zoom allow your mom or dad to connect with you and other family members from the comfort of their home. Regular contact reduces their risk of isolation, which may cause loneliness and depression. They can also reach out to friends even if they have an injury or limited mobility. Staying in touch with your parent keeps you informed about their physical and mental state and address issues right away.

#2: Monitoring Health and Wellness

Medical alert pendants, necklaces and bracelets can be worn anywhere, which is especially important if your loved one is a fall risk. That technology sends notifications to you and emergency medical staff if your loved one falls.

Fitness trackers monitor vitals, including heart rate, sleep and calories burned. Those numbers come in handy if your loved one lives with a chronic health condition like high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes.

#3: Managing Medication

Pill organizers are useful tools for medication management but don’t offer a solution if your mom or dad doesn’t remember to take their medicine on time. Health and wellness apps for smart devices provide visual and auditory reminders to help your parent remember to take their prescription, supplements and over-the-counter meds on time daily.

#4: Addressing Mobility Needs

Exercise and mobility are essential components of healthy aging. Using voice-command technology like Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant allows your parent to complete tasks and interact with their home even if they have limited mobility. Your mom could give a verbal command to open the curtains and turn on the lights. Your dad can adjust the thermostat without having to leave his chair.

Video doorbells send notifications to your loved one’s smart device so they can greet guests and unlock the door remotely. That technology also functions as a security camera so your mom or dad will see who’s outside before approaching the door.

#5: Accessing Transportation

If your parent still maintains a busy schedule but doesn’t drive, they may require transportation services when you’re unavailable. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have apps for smart devices, so your loved one can schedule transportation at their fingertips. 

Some ridesharing services like GoGo Grandparent also offer food delivery services, including grocery items. Your parent can order their items online and have them brought to their doorstep, allowing them to complete their errands without worrying about organizing transportation.

Embassy Healthcare has comprehensive services in all our assisted living and skilled nursing communities to provide your parent with the personalized care they need. Call 216-378-2050 to learn about our services.