Technology for seniors

News flash! The holidays are around the corner. It’s hard to believe it is already that time of year. Over recent years there have been many technology devices that have hit the market that can be fun, easy, and helpful to older adults living alone. Some of these devices may make great holiday gifts for your loved ones while simplifying chores, enhancing safety, and providing entertainment. Experts have advised to buy early this year as technology for seniors is a popular holiday gift.

Many of you may think your older loved ones are stuck on the ‘old school’ way of doing things and may not be interested in technology gifts or devices. However, a recent AARP article states, “adults 70-plus have a particular fondness for tablets, with more than half (53%) owning one, up from 40% in 2019. These tablets aren’t just sitting on a coffee table gathering dust: 69% of those 70-plus said they use their tablets daily.”

In addition, seniors love to stream. AARP found, “in 2020, 64% owned a smart TV, up from 49% in 2019. Even among those 70 and older, more than half now own a smart TV.”

Let’s take a look at some popular products for seniors.

Many of our clients rely on their Amazon Echo Dots or similar devices to play music, control smart home devices, make calls, answer questions, set timers and alarms among other uses. One of our clients even mentioned to our care coordinator, Megan, that her device is often her only “friend’. These devices are helpful to set reminders for medication and doctor appointments. Furthermore, it can potentially be a life-saving device if it is set up to call or text you if your loved one asks it to call for help.

The Apple Watch can be enjoyed for its many features, but it also has fall detection capabilities. The watch can send a message to emergency contacts informing them of a hard fall. Another Apple product that can help with hearing issues are the AirPods which can be used with Live Listen from an iPhone, Ipad or Ipod touch acting as a microphone.

Also, Tile products can be used to help you find everyday items such as keys, wallets, and phones. These are relatively inexpensive and can certainly come in handy.

Have you heard of a Grand Pad? This tablet is designed with seniors in mind and allows video chatting with loved ones and simple apps for music, games, and safe internet browsing.

Lastly, a favorite gift we have personally given to grandparents has been a digital picture frame such as Aura or Nixplay. It is easy to set-up and photos can be added directly from a phone app. When you are away, you can send favorite photos of your family directly to the grandparents’ frames. Family members love it and often comment how helpful it has been to feel connected.

Hurley Elder Care Law provides a holistic approach to our elder law practice which includes care coordinators who often have safety discussions with our clients and families. This is just part of the many services we offer our clients to help them lead the most independent lives possible.