Continuing the theme of our previous post, here are three more ways technology can enable elders to age in place more safely.
- Smart locks: This is a helpful tool for people with dementia who may wander. Smart locks replace regular door locks and allow caregivers to control access remotely. Features often include automatic locking schedules and the ability to share virtual keys with family members.
- Medication Reminders: Medication reminders can come in the form of technology. such as “Reminder Rosie.” Also, automated pill dispensers or full dispensing solutions such as “Hero Health” can be very useful, as can mobile phone apps such as “Medisafe,” which send notifications as reminders.
- Memory Phones: People living with memory loss often have a hard time using phones. Memory phones seek to remedy these issues. Depending on your loved one’s needs, there are even picture phones where they can dial someone based on a picture rather than a phone number. Most of these devices also have extra large keypads to make dialing easier. The Alzheimer’s Store offers a variety of different memory phones. www.alzstore.com. The store also has animated robotic therapy dogs and cats and a variety of helpful tools for those experiencing memory loss.
Assistive technology and devices for seniors and people with dementia can help improve a loved one’s safety and alleviate some stress for the caregiver. Be sure to check with your loved one’s health insurance provider to see if any of these devices are covered by their health insurance plan.
Also, we love to provide resources to our clients, so if you are using technology that you find helpful in keeping your loved one safer at home, please let us know so that we can share!