Your grandparents may not have used a computer, but your parents probably use a smartphone. There are plenty of consumer products available on the market today that can make your parents live a little more independently.
We discuss 5 technologies that you have probably heard of, but might not have considered how they can help your parents. Consider the following short list:
Pill organizers and dispensers:
No matter your age, it can be easy to lose track of the last time you took your medication.
Tip 1: Make it simple. Purchase a low cost weekly pill organizer with three daily compartments.
Tip 2: Make it automatic. Never forget or double dose.
Check out the 2022 Best Pill Dispensers
Smart Watch (Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy)
These are actually little computers that look just like a watch that we wear on our wrists and they are becoming more popular every day. They have many features that can help seniors.
Tip 1: The Apple Smart Watch has a feature that detects if a person falls. The watch will recognize a fall and ask if the person needs help.
Tip 2: Some Doctors are using the Apple Smart watch to record data such as heart rates and even an electrocardiogram. It is not FDA approved however and is only used as an indicator.
Apple Smart Watch and Samsung Galaxy
Video Calling for Seniors:
Everyone is video calling these days. Let’s make it simple for your loved ones.
Tip 1: Look for a product designed for Seniors, like the GrandPad, video calling for seniors without needing the use of Wi-Fi.
Tip 2: Keep it in the family: if you have an Alexa app or an Echo device with a screen, such as the Amazon Echo Show or Apple’s FaceTime, you’ll find it’s easier to connect.
Google Home/Amazon Alexa:
Despite the wide range of Google Home add-ons products available, there are a few simple features that might make life a little bit easier.
Tip 1: It’s great for setting timers. Simply put the chicken in the oven, say “OK Google set a timer for 6 hours,” and when the time is up, the device will sound an alarm.
Tip 2: No hands are needed to make phone calls. On Google Home simply say “OK Google call my daughter” and the device will make the call without needing to press small buttons. This is great for someone with dexterity issues.
Kitchen Appliances:
Technology doesn’t need to be fancy. Simple kitchen appliances can help make a senior’s life much easier. Try using gadgets such as these:
Vegetable cutter: Slicing carrots and chopping potatoes can get hard when you lose dexterity in your hands. There are numerous appliances that can help with slicing and dicing.
Jar opener: If you struggle to open a jar, there are devices that can help open those impossible jars for you. An example is available at Bed Bath and Beyond.
Hands-free can opener: This is an automatic can opener that cuts along the side of the lid without touching the food inside and leaves no sharp cuts. It is easy to operate and is lightweight.
Which technologies have made a big difference in your parents’ lives?
If your family is ready for the next step in senior care, GoldenSHERPA is another excellent tool for them.
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