Technology Solutions for Seniors

By Melissa Andrews of Paradise Living Centers

According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), people aged 50 years and older generate a whopping $7.6 trillion in economic activity. The trend is expected to grow as the number of older adults is expected to double by 2050 and represent over 20% of the American population.

As these boomers age, they want to do so as independently, actively, and gracefully as possible. Fortunately, this is where technology for seniors can come in handy. Undoubtedly, just like assisted senior care, technology is considered a significant disruptor that can help them live their best lives.

Technological Innovations That Make Life Easy for Seniors

In today’s high-tech society, it’s not surprising that technological innovations designed especially for seniors have become increasingly popular. From providing entertainment down to managing medications, below are some of the technological innovations that have made life a breeze for seniors:

GrandPad

The GrandPad is a tablet that’s easy to use and comes with built-in wireless data. The GrandPad also allows seniors to listen to music, play games, and even video chat with the family. It also comes with its own private family network, which enables members they have approved to update contact information, add photos, and many more. 

With the GrandPad, there is no need to remember passwords or set up a modem. The device insurance also replaces broken devices at no extra cost. The GrandPad is an excellent gift for seniors who want to connect with their friends and loved ones but are not tech-savvy.

Other Features:

• Safe from spam and scams
• Sends voice-automated voice emails
• Comes with enlarged text for easy reading
• Provides unlimited access to a support team

Hero Digital Pill Dispenser

The Hero Digital Pill Dispenser is designed to dispense a senior’s medication at the right time daily. The device can hold up to 10 different pills of various sizes and shapes. What’s even more impressive is it can be customized to any medication schedule.

The Hero Digital Pill Dispenser can store up to 90 days of medication (depending on the pill size). In addition, the device is connected to the Hero app, which can track consumption and doses. 

The dispenser won’t work with half pills, sticky dissoluble pills, and gummies to ward off contamination risks. The Hero Digital Pill Dispenser will also deliver over-the-counter medications and prescriptions free of charge.

Other Features:

• Password protected
• Free shipping and returns
• Notifications when medication is low
• Free software updates
• Free shipping and returns
• HIPAA-compliant security for all data
• 24/7 support team
• 30-day free trial

Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Generation)

The Amazon Echo Dot is a compact speaker loaded with several senior-friendly abilities and features. This compact speaker is not only voice-activated, but it is also small enough that it can be easily carried anywhere. This Amazon Echo Dot also allows you to do the following:

• Stream music
• Chat
• Play games
• Receive news updates
• Check the weather
• Set alarms to take medications
• Create grocery lists

It can also help guard the home by setting up an additional feature in the Alexa app. The device will then provide alerts about broken glass, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide.

Other Features:

• Hands-free calls
• Fabric design
• Privacy protection
• Voice controls to turn on lights, adjust thermostats, and lock doors

COWIN E7 Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones

For seniors that love entertainment or live with hearing loss, the E7 active noise-canceling headphones can take their listening experience to the next level. This can prove quite handy if they love podcasts, movies, and music. Designed with active noise reduction technology, it can cancel lower frequencies, while its Bluetooth technology makes easy and hands-free listening possible.

Other Features:

• Professional padding
• High-quality built-in microphone
• 30-hour battery life
• 90° swiveling ear cups

Fitbit Versa 2

The Fitbit Versa 2 is both a health manager and a versatile watch. It comes with a heart-rate tracker and provides easy access to information and apps. You can also use it to listen to unlimited music using Spotify. The Fitbit Versa 2 can also be used to track the weather, set alarms, and even pay bills on the go.

Other Features:

• Personalized clock face
• Fitbit pay
• 24/7 heart rate tracking
• Sleep tracker
• Built-in Amazon Alexa

Ring Video Doorbell

Ring makes doorbell camera systems that give real-time notifications to smartphones when visitors trigger motion sensors or ring the doorbell. The product will not only warrant the safety of the elderly, but it can also make life very easy for them.

Through the Ring Video Doorbell, they can also speak to visitors anytime and anywhere. In addition, the device can also be used to monitor doors around the home.

Other Features:

• Works with Alexa
• Night vision
• Advanced motion settings
• 1080 HD video 
• Two-way talk

Final Thoughts

While many tech innovations are designed to make life fun and effortless for seniors, don’t be surprised if they can be hesitant to use them at first. Understandably, unfamiliar technology might feel invasive for them. Make time to explain to them how these technological wonders can boost their happiness, health, and well-being, and they’d be more open to giving them a try.