Technology plays a significant role in all of our lives and the senior living industry is no different. It’s exciting to see the innovative ways that can make the life of an older adult not only easier but often more fulfilled and meaningful.
Whether your loved one enjoys the health benefits from wearable tech or a video connection that brings the family together to sing Happy Birthday, technology is an interactive and amazing tool.
The advantages of technology for older adults
Depending on the type of assistance needed or the favorite pastimes of your family member, technology can greatly impact the quality of life in the following areas:
- Safety and security
- Health monitoring
- Alert button systems for aid and assistance
- Keep up to date with news
- Games or other entertainment
- eBooks
- Access to transportation
- Interact with family and friends
- Convenient shopping from home
- Smart home: appliances, lighting, security, and more
Older adults are catching up to technology
Younger adults are still more likely to be early adopters of technology, according to a Pew Research Center survey in 2021. But use of key technologies in the oldest age group has grown markedly in the last decade. The gap between those 65+ and young adults aged 18-29 has narrowed.
The survey also found 61% of those aged 65+ and 83% of those 50-64 now own a smartphone. Older adults’ presence on social media has grown fourfold since 2010 and 96% of those aged 50-64 and 75% of those 65 and older report being internet users.
What’s available in wearable tech and gadgets
Wearable tech is often seen as a significant advantage for older adults who may live alone. These products accompany the person continually and may even contribute to saving a life. According to the National Council on Aging, 80% of adults aged 65 plus have at least one chronic condition and 68% have 2 or more.
Today’s technology has become more intuitive – and user-friendly. Training or instructions are easier to decipher and access. Take a look at a few innovations, including wearable tech, that can help older adults stay connected with the world, their healthcare team and their friends and families:
1. Medication management
Dispenser technology can help your loved one manage prescriptions. These products can store and deliver needed medication – as prescribed and on schedule. Some devices can also facilitate requesting refills automatically.
2. Tablets and pads
Tablets or pads are a great fit for older adults as they provide a larger screen for viewing and are easy to hold or carry. Advantages include a simple way to video chat with family members, watch a program, listen to music or read and send emails.
3. Wearable tech that can manage health
When it comes to wearable tech, watches can monitor heart rates, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, blood sugar and track fitness progress. Among new wearable tech products, there is also a ring that can measure heart rate, physical activities and calories used.
4. Smart homes
Sensors, discreet cameras and voice activation can control thermostats, lighting and send notifications to family members about general activity of the resident. Depending on the needs of your loved one, however, monitoring the observations may still be needed.
5. Heart and pain monitors
Storing your EKG (electrocardiogram) on your smartphone and sending it by email to your doctor can be a lifesaver. Other wearable tech products can track and analyze blood pressure. For chronic pain, there is a relief kit that provides nerve stimulation.
6. Electronic books
If you love diving into the latest novel or historical fiction, eBooks are a great way to gain instant access without having to go to a library or bookstore. eBook readers can store thousands of books and you can take them with you, wherever you go.
7. Games to stimulate your brain
Keeping your mind active can help keep your brain healthy, including possibly delaying symptoms of dementia. Access games that can stimulate your mind – and are just plain fun. Many are free or allow you to play with others across the world.
8. Personal alerts if help is needed
If your loved one lives alone and wears an alert system, family members or emergency services can be notified quickly. This wearable tech can report falls, movement or accidents, bringing peace of mind for both the older adult and family members.
9. Connect easily with social media
Older adults enjoy Facebook to stay up to date with family and friends. YouTube is also becoming widely used with 88% of those aged 55 and over using the platform on a weekly basis. Easily navigable, it’s a great way to stay connected.
10. Telehealth appointments
Medical professionals and older adults can often take advantage of telehealth appointments. Participating in a video chat with your doctor can mean less exposure to other illnesses, less waiting time for an appointment and may be offered at a lower cost.
11. Shopping made easy
Technology has you covered when it’s not convenient for you to leave your home. You can visit almost every retail site imaginable, pull up photographs, read testimonials and product descriptions for information. Many sites offer free shipping as an added bonus.
Assisted Living in Broward County at Seaside Hallandale Beach
We’re here to answer any questions you may have about senior living. If your family is searching for assisted living in Broward County, we invite your family to see how our community can encourage and promote a higher quality of life.
Supporting our residents to age well, we believe you or your parents will enjoy the services and amenities available in our pet-friendly community:
We encourage you to visit Seaside Hallandale Beach assisted living in Broward County which is designed to provide activities and social opportunities to help our residents in reaching their wellness goals.
- A monthly social calendar of activities
- Beautiful common spaces to socialize
- Weekly housekeeping
- A spacious courtyard
- An outdoor pool with a covered patio
- Personalized fitness and wellness programs
- Scheduled transportation
- Easy and safe access to the beach
If you have any questions about Seaside Hallandale Beach Senior Living, please contact us at 954-607-1000 or download our brochure.
