Thanks to technological advancements, independent living has become easier for seniors than ever. Today, they can access tools, gadgets, and apps that can make daily life easier and safer for them. Not only that, but the tools also give seniors better and much more exciting ways to stay entertained and connected to their loved ones. Incorporating even a few of these gadgets and tools into their daily life can truly transform the way seniors experience independence.
Delivery Apps
Getting food, groceries, or other essentials delivered to the doorstep can help seniors live independently. With delivery apps, seniors do not need to seek help from other individuals to get their food or daily necessities. These apps offer a sense of autonomy; with just a smartphone and internet connection, seniors can place their orders and get their essentials without risking their safety. Seniors with mobility issues can especially benefit from this piece of technology.
Robot Vacuum Cleaners
Daily cleaning and mopping is not an easy task for many seniors. Not only can it be physically demanding, but it can also put their well-being at risk. That said, they would also not want to compromise on keeping their living space clean. This is where robot vacuum cleaners can be helpful. These devices can automatically clean floors with minimal effort, navigating around furniture and returning to their charging stations on their own. Thanks to such features, robot vacuum cleaners are proving to be among the most senior-friendly gadgets.
Smart Thermostats
Adjusting the thermostat multiple times throughout the day can cause significant physical strain. Thankfully, smart tech innovation has made things a lot easier. Smart thermostats can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or even voice commands. What’s more, their capabilities do not end there. These devices can even learn an individual’s routine and automatically adjust temperatures based on daily habits. This ensures a comfortable living environment without the need for constant manual adjustments, making smart thermostats one of the most innovative products for senior living.
Wearables
When it comes to tech solutions for seniors, smartwatches and wearable devices always make it to the top options. After all, smartwatches do a lot that can help seniors live safe, independent lives. For example, these devices come with a GPS tracking option. This feature lets seniors’ family members and caregivers know their location in real time. These devices can also help seniors stay connected to their loved ones through call and message functions without the need to carry a phone.
Smart Assistants
Voice-controlled smart assistants are highly valuable as assistive technology for seniors. They can easily manage small daily tasks, such as setting reminders for meals or appointments, making calls, and controlling the lights in the room with just voice commands. These devices can be especially helpful for seniors with mobility or vision issues. Besides essential tasks, voice-controlled assistants can provide entertainment by playing music or audiobooks per seniors’ commands.
Video Doorbells
Safety is a huge concern for seniors who live alone, and video doorbells can be a helpful solution. Video doorbells are a type of smart home technology equipped with built-in motion sensors that detect any movement at the door and send instant alerts to a connected smartphone or tablet. Such functionality allows seniors to see who is outside without physically approaching the door. Moreover, with their real-time video feed, smart video doorbells also allow seniors to communicate with the individual outside without answering the door. In fact, these devices feature two-way audio systems, allowing both parties to communicate while ensuring seniors’ safety and privacy. This added layer of security allows seniors to manage their home’s entryway on their own, boosting their confidence and allowing them to live independently.
Smart Lighting
Light bulbs with motion sensors are a simple yet effective smart home upgrade that can greatly benefit seniors. These lights detect movement automatically and turn off after a predetermined period of inactivity. Their use eliminates the need to fumble for switches in the dark, reducing the risk of falls. Such devices make nighttime trips, including those to the bathroom, much more comfortable and safer for seniors.
Virtual Reality Glasses
This new piece of technology has been transforming the world of gaming, education, and entertainment with its level of immersion. For seniors, VR glasses can also be a transformative and engaging tool. With these glasses, seniors can enjoy varied virtual experiences, such as traveling to new places, taking museum tours, getting on immersive video calls, and participating in interactive meditation programs without leaving the comfort of their homes. VR glasses can be the best aging-in-place technology for seniors with limited mobility. Some senior living communities have even recognized the benefits of VR in helping seniors get out of social isolation and incorporating it into their recreational programs.