New Technologies - Helping Seniors Stay Connected and Increase Independence!

It’s remarkable how much has changed and how quickly! Technologies that would have seemed like science fiction fantasies to seniors when they were children are now being used by many seniors today to make their lives safer, healthier and more enjoyable.

 Helpful technologies can range from smart phone/ tablet applications that allow a grandparent to have live chats with their grand children to sophisticated technologies that track an individual’s every day movements and medication dispensers that can report to family when their loved one forgets to take a pill.

Using these technologies should always be done thoughtfully with the goal of helping seniors or persons with disabilities to live with dignity and independence.

iPad

An iPad is a great gift for a senior. These new tablets are lightweight, have big screens and are relatively easy to use.
http://www.apple.com/ipad/

Some useful tablet applications for seniors:

 Skype (free): Skype is for face-to-face video conferencing. Seniors can chat with grandchildren and other loved ones anywhere in the world. 

 iBooks (free): iBooks turns an iPad into an eBook reader. Font size and brightness can be easily adjusted for seniors with vision problems.

Magnifying Glass (free): This app turns an iPad into a digital magnifying glass.

Goodreads (free): A book lovers dream. Users can read reviews of books they are considering reading, rate and write reviews of books they've read, keep a log of books read, and receive recommendations about books that match their interests.

Nintendo Wii

Another fun technology that seniors are using is the Nintendo Wii. This high tech video game system uses motion sensitive controllers that doctors have begun recommending for use in rehabilitation for recovering from strokes, broken bones and recent surgeries. “Wihabilitation” guides user’s body movements with fun games that are similar to traditional rehabilitation therapies. Using a Wii is a fun supplement to traditional therapies that can help improve balance, strength and motor skills.  
http://www.nintendo.com/wii/what-is-wii/

Additional technologies exist for individuals who have significant disabilities or cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s. They can help family members keep an eye out for seniors who are living alone and help individuals living independently feel more secure and less isolated.

Grand Care Systems

GrandCare is a complete communication, cognition and monitoring technology. GrandCare consists of a series of wireless activity (door, temp, motion, bed, etc.) that can alert care providers and family members to potential problems.

http://www.grandcare.com/

 BeClose

BeClose is another technological program that uses discreet wireless sensors placed in the home, including a wearable alert button. BeClose tracks your loved one's daily routine. Family members can check on their loved ones using a private, secure web page. And, if there are any disruptions to daily life,alerts are sent out in real time by phone, email or text message.

http://beclose.com 

 In summary, there are many new technologies available to help seniors and people with disabilities live more fulfilling, independent lives and provide assurance and monitoring to family members who cannot always be there.

In addition to using new technologies, adding a senior concierge to provide wellness checks, run errands and be an on call resource can greatly enhance independence and prevent isolation.

Call Life Tree #inBend, Oregon or visit us on the web at www.lifetreepersonalservice.com to learn more!