Read about how technology can help the elderly live more independently for a better quality of life long-term.
A study by The Live-in Care Hub found that nearly 100% of people would rather avoid residential care if they become unwell and unable to care for themselves. One of the best solutions for this problem is to contact a live-in care agency to organise home care. Home care enables an elderly person to remain in their own home safely and happily, avoiding the stressful move into residential care.
In addition to the services of a live-in care agency, an elderly person can benefit from technology to help maintain an independent life. There are lots of incredible technologies around these days to help a senior live in their home independently for longer. Here is some of the best tech around to help the elderly maintain their independence:
Health Trackers
Wearables that track your health are not just for the young, and can actually help the elderly maintain independence. Rather than relying on medical staff to discover signs that there is a medical issue, or waiting until a nasty medical event takes place that needs treating, wearables give you the control. They can track all kinds of vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure, so if there is a problem, you can get it checked out before it turns into something worse.
Self Driving Cars
Self driving cars could help the elderly overcome the issue of needing a driver to get around when they are no longer able to drive themselves. The technology isn’t quite there yet, but phone apps that connect to local drivers are a really good current option to help the elderly get transport from their current location, offering more choice than taxis alone.
Personal Alarms
Personal alarms are worn around the neck or wrist and enable an elderly person to let somebody know that they have fallen over or are in danger. The alarm connects to an operator when used, and so a person can get help very quickly rather than lying injured until home care, or a family member visit.
Stairlifts
Stairlifts have been around for a while but they continue to be one of the most important forms of technology used in the home of the elderly. They provide the ability to get to all areas of the home, so a person can access the bathroom to wash themselves, or to the garden to maintain it. Stairlifts that go from the front door to the pavement also enable a person to get out and about to do shopping or get to public transport.
Tablets And Smartphones
Having access to the internet means that an elderly person has the ability to speak to loved ones, to organise medication deliveries and even to research home care services themselves. Having that level of control over finding out vital information and connecting with others in multiple ways is really important when it comes to a senior maintaining independence.
Technology can form an important part of an overall selection of facilities and help so that a senior can stay independent as long as possible. Some technology might even be available as part of a care package offered by social services. Or, consider getting in touch with local charities for the elderly that may be able to provide funding for technology or free items for you to use.
