
How Technology Can Enhance Daily Living for Seniors
Health monitoring. Keeping in touch with loved ones. Increased independence. Today’s senior-friendly technology devices give older adults more options and opportunities than ever before. From integration by professionals to everyday uses in the home and while out and about, the benefits of technology for seniors are endless — and only continue to grow! Here are the key ways that tech for older adults is making aging easier, more enjoyable, and more stress-free.
Smart Home Devices
Smart home systems and digital assistants are powerful tools for older adults, with inventions to support both safety and independence. Voice-activated assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Home help seniors to program lights, temperature controls, security systems, and more. These are also great hands-free options for medication reminders, making shopping lists, and calling friends and family (as well as emergency or support services if needed).
For assisted living seniors looking to maximize their independence, smart home devices are a great way to navigate a range of everyday tasks.
Wearable Tech
From smartwatches and fitness bands to medical alert necklaces and bracelets, today’s health-monitoring accessories provide invaluable, real-time health data for older adults. You can monitor vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and sleep patterns, as well as enable fall detection and program automatic emergency contacts.
Even something as simple as hearing aids have made great strides in their tech-centric capabilities! Today’s modern versions include Bluetooth options to hook up to your phone or TV, apps to customize sound quality, and moldable designs to maximize comfort.
With plenty of brands, styles, and forms to choose from, wearable technology provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones — with low-profile designs that fit into your everyday lifestyle.
Adaptive Technology
Adaptive, or assistive, technology can take many forms, but all have the same purpose: to help you live a full and fulfilling life while maximizing your independence. For senior technology, this includes screen readers, high-contrast designs, talking watches, and audiobooks.
Have a smartphone? There are plenty of amazing apps for seniors available to make life easier, from memory aid devices to talking with your doctor. The settings on phones also offer great customization, including large font, high-contrast, color-blind friendly modes, and simplified home screens. Whatever your need, high chances are that someone’s thought of a solution!
For more free adaptive tech, the Library of Congress offers audiobook and large font materials through the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled. Seniors can access an extensive collection of audiobooks (including the latest releases!) as well as receive free playback equipment shipped straight to their home.
Social Connection
Finally, though it may seem second-nature now, having easy and regular access to live communication with friends and family is one of the best technologies for seniors. A regular social life provides a variety of health benefits, including mood regulation and improved memory and focus. Today’s video-calling and messaging platforms make staying in touch with friends, family, and loved ones easy, and large screens like tablets or smart TVs can improve picture quality and make face-to-face quality time a breeze.
Discover High Point Center for Care
From voice-activated assistants to wearable health monitors and easy video calls with loved ones, today’s technology makes life safer, simpler, and more connected for older adults. At High Point Center for Care at Broadview, we embrace the abilities of residents and offer assisted living and memory care support that maximizes independence. We bring the latest technology into everyday life, helping residents keep an eye on their health, stay in touch with friends and family, and decide their own days.
Contact us to learn more about the new High Point Center for Care and schedule a personal tour.