Many groups want to help seniors and to help they focus on the general issue of technology and aging. We’re all familiar with aging, and with luck, we’ll all continue to experience aging for many years. However, we’re likely also familiar with some of the negative aspects of aging, such as poorer vision and hearing, less easy movement, and so on.
Like aging, technology has its good
and bad aspects. On the good side, technology has made it possible for more
people to do more things more easily. For example, it’s easier to make a phone
call to a relative in another country than it is to go there personally, or
even to send a letter. If you use a computer, sending an e-mail may be easier
than making a phone call, and is likely less expensive; it’s certainly faster
and less expensive than sending a telegram, the first version of e-mail. However,
technology can also be frustrating, as you may know, if you’ve tried to learn a
new program on your computer. Technology can help us maintain
our independence, and think about devices
such as glucose meters, cell phones, home monitoring, etc. So, let us look at the
concerns raised by the focus group of 212 seniors from four provinces in Canada. We will offer ideas on how technology can help with the issues
raised.
Maintaining good health and
managing illnesses are vital for seniors to remain independent.
1.
Telehealth platforms enable seniors to consult with healthcare professionals
without leaving their homes. This can help manage chronic conditions and
provide quick access to medical advice, reducing the need for hospital visits.
Here is a quick link to the best platforms in Canada https://www.syscreations.com/best-telehealth-telemedicine-apps-in-ontario-canada-experts-tips/
2.
Medication Tracker Apps can remind
seniors to take their medications on time and track their usage. This helps in
managing prescriptions accurately, reducing health risks associated with missed
doses. Here is a link to ten of the best apps https://www.asbestos.com/treatment/drugs/medication-tracker-apps/
Mobility issues can severely impact
a senior's ability to live independently.
1.
Mobility Assistance Devices: Technology such as electric wheelchairs and
mobility scooters can help seniors move around their homes and communities more
easily, enhancing their independence.
2.
Home Automation Systems: Smart home devices like Amazon Echo or Google Nest
can control lights, thermostats, and security systems via voice commands,
reducing the need for physical movement.
Financial stability is crucial for
seniors to maintain their independence.
1.
Budgeting Apps: There are many apps out there that claim to help. Rob Berger
who is a Contributing Editor for Forbes Advisor, host of the Financial Freedom
Show, and the author of Retire Before Mom and Dad--The Simple Numbers Behind a
Lifetime of Financial Freedom has created a list of Apps that can help seniors
manage their finances by tracking expenses, creating budgets, and providing
financial advice. Here is his link: https://robberger.com/
2.
Online Banking Services: Banks offer online services that allow seniors to
manage their accounts, pay bills, and transfer money without needing to visit a
branch. Check with your financial institution to get help to go online.
Losing the ability to drive can
limit seniors' independence and access to necessary services.
1.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber
and Lyft can provide
convenient transportation options for seniors who are no longer able to drive.
2.
Grocery Delivery Services: Apps like Instacart can deliver groceries directly to seniors' homes,
ensuring they have access to food without needing to travel.
Memory issues and dementia can
hinder a senior's ability to live independently.
1.
Reminder Apps: Apps like Google
Keep or Remember
The Milk can set reminders for daily tasks, appointments, and medications,
helping seniors keep track of important activities.
2.
GPS Tracking Devices: Wearable GPS devices like AngelSense can help
caregivers monitor the location of seniors with dementia, ensuring their safety
if they wander or get lost.
Finding affordable housing options
is a significant concern for many seniors.
1.
Housing Search Platforms: Websites like A Place for Mom can help seniors and their families find
affordable retirement homes and senior living communities that match their
needs and budget.
2.
Home-Sharing Apps: Platforms like Silvernest connect seniors with compatible housemates,
reducing housing costs and providing companionship.
Seniors often strive to remain
independent without relying on others.
1.
Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Devices like Life Alert allow seniors to
call for help in emergencies with the push of a button, providing a safety net
without constant assistance from others.
2.
Virtual Assistants: Smart speakers with virtual assistants like Alexa can help with daily
tasks, answer questions, and provide reminders, supporting independent living.
Safety concerns can impact a
senior's ability to live independently.
1.
Home Security Systems: Smart security systems like Ring provide video doorbells,
cameras, and alarms that can be monitored via smartphone, enhancing home
security.
2.
Community Alert Apps: Apps like Nextdoor
keep seniors informed about local crime and safety alerts, fostering a sense of
community and security.
Hearing and vision loss can pose
significant challenges to independent living.
1.
Hearing Aid Technology: Advanced hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity, such
as those from Phonak,
improve hearing and can connect to phones and other devices for easier
communication.
2.
Vision Assistance Apps: Apps like Be My Eyes connect visually impaired seniors with volunteers
for assistance with everyday tasks via video call.
Weather/Ice
1.
Weather Alert Apps: Apps like The Weather Channel provide real-time weather
updates and alerts, helping seniors plan their activities around safe
conditions.
2.
Home Maintenance Services: Apps like TaskRabbit can connect seniors with local handymen to clear
ice and snow, ensuring safe access to their homes.
Losing a partner can impact both
emotional well-being and financial stability.
1.
Social Connection Apps: Apps like Silvernest can match seniors with housemates, providing
companionship and shared living costs.
2.
Grief Support Online Communities: Websites like GriefShare offer support
groups and resources to help seniors cope with the loss of a partner.
Fear of new experiences can limit a
senior's independence and quality of life.
1.
Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Coursera offer courses that can help seniors gain new skills
and confidence from the safety of their homes.
2.
Virtual Reality Experiences: VR technology, such as Oculus, can provide safe and
engaging experiences that encourage seniors to try new activities and stay
mentally active.
Negative attitudes can affect a
senior's self-esteem and independence.
1.
Social Networking for Seniors: Platforms like Stitch provide a community for seniors to connect, share
experiences, and support each other in maintaining independence.
2.
Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the AARP offer resources and advocacy to combat ageism and
promote senior independence.
