Although it is highly gratifying, caring for an aging-in-place loved one is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. Finding enough time in the day to juggle caregiving duties with a household and job can often be overwhelming. Thankfully, newer advancements in caregiving technology have simplified time management like never before. If you are an informal caregiver, what follows are several modern tools professional caregivers use while assisting clients in their homes.
How Technology Benefits Clients and Caregivers
As the average person grows older, the inevitable challenges of aging can keep them from staying active and socially engaged. For many seniors, living “life to the fullest” is more of a cliché than reality. When introduced to them by their caregivers, high-tech gadgets and other tools now offer a way for formerly isolated seniors to enjoy more fulfilling lives.
Modern technology benefits aging-in-place seniors in these ways:
- Source of entertainment
- Monitoring health and wellness
- Instant access to food and transportation
- Connects them with family, friends, and healthcare providers.
- Safety and security
- Staying informed about the latest news and trends
- Ensures peace of mind
- Alerts caregivers if something is wrong.
Newer Technologies that Streamline In-Home Eldercare
Caregivers can now use these high-tech apps, gadgets, and services to save time while ensuring their loved ones get the nurturing they deserve:
Mobile phone apps
Mobile applications, or apps, are computer programs designed to run on a smartphone or tablet. There are apps for playing games, listening to music or audiobooks, or watching videos. Some apps can be downloaded for free, while others must be purchased through the Apple App Store (Apple devices) or Google Play (Android devices). Some of the best mobile apps for seniors include Find My iPhone, Pandora, Life360, and AARP Now.
Meal delivery services
Along with socialization, a senior’s health also relies on good nutrition. Meal delivery services like Silver Cuisine, Magic Kitchen, or Freshology make it easier for older adults and their caregivers to have groceries and nutritious meals dropped off on their doorstep.
Video chatting platforms
COVID-19 has driven the demand for video conferencing and chatting services that can also be used by seniors to communicate with loved ones. Free services like Skype, FaceTime, and Zoom allow older adults to call loved ones and see their smiling faces even when they live far away. From checking in with their caregivers to interacting with grandchildren and friends, video chats are a great way for homebound seniors to stay safe and connected!
Medical alert systems
In-home falls and other accidents injure millions of older adults every year. Medical alert devices are one way to restore peace of mind for seniors and their caregivers. In the event of an emergency, a medical alert system like Medical Alert, LifeFone, or GetSafe allows the user to promptly notify first responders, dramatically reducing the time it takes for them to arrive at the home.
Virtual doctor appointments
Without leaving the house, telemedicine services like PlushCare, Teladoc, and MDlive now offer older patients convenient access to many of the same non-emergency services they would normally receive at their doctor’s office. By videoconferencing with a licensed doctor or nurse, seniors and caregivers can take advantage of virtual medical services, including checkups, urgent care, and mental health care.
Ridesharing services
Older adults who can no longer drive, or prefer not to, can also benefit from ridesharing apps like Lyft and Uber. Once you’ve downloaded the mobile app on their phone – and showed them how to use it – your loved one can simply enter their destination and choose a ride. For security purposes, the app will alert you once the driver has arrived at their home.
Innovative Home Care Solutions for Seniors in Fort Myers, FL
Caring for an aging-in-place loved one isn’t always easy when you’re busy or live far away. When you need a hand, contact the caring home care professionals at Home Instead. Conveniently available in Naples, Fort Myers, and Charlotte Country, FL, our senior care services help to enhance the aging experience by providing practical support at home delivered with a human touch.
Our reliable in-home solutions help aging adults stay engaged in everyday life with tailor-made support to stay safe and well at home. At Home Instead, it is always our mission to provide a care plan personalized to your family’s needs – bringing you all comfort, companionship, and peace of mind. To learn more or schedule a time to talk with one of our home care specialists, please visit us at www.homeinsteadswfl.com.
