Stay Connected and Independent: The Best Technology for Older Adults

Stay Connected and Independent with the Best New Technology for Older Adults

By Vanessa Sheets –

“My 90-year-old father uses his computer for email and Facebook to stay connected with family, along with other devices that help him to safely live on his own,” says Jim Dunn, CEO of Bask, a technology service company based in the U.S. that specializes in computer electronics and device support to seniors.

New technology like smarter monitoring systems, pill reminder services, activity trackers, and even smart utensils to help those with movement disorders like Parkinson’s, all help older adults “age in place,” a term used to describe the ability to continue to live a full life at home.

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“Technology can allow you stay in your home longer, keeping you happier and able to recover faster,” Dunn said.

Devices like smartphones become the intelligence for many electronics designed to help older adults live independently. In fact, 70% of older adults between the ages of 55 and 65-years-old are going mobile, according to Dunn, who said the growing trend helps manage smarter messaging, alerts, and tracking systems.

Companies are designing better devices for older adults each year. With over 110 million adults over age 50, this market is currently the number one consumer demographic in the U.S. While this means more technology for older adults is available now than ever before, selecting the most beneficial devices for your unique needs can be overwhelming.

If you’re looking to invest in new smart electronics, Dunn advises making the decision from a place of empowerment. By considering the options and using a service like Bask to support you in integrating new technology, you’ll be able to get the most benefit out of using it.

“What may help your situation could be very different from advice given to you by a younger generation,” Dunn said.

We searched for the top new devices in the industry for you or your loved one that can help keep you happy, healthy, and safe at home:

  1. Smart Spoon and Fork. This new device by Gyenno helps those with Parkinson’s or other movement disorders eat without stress and uses Cloud technology to track tremor status to improve the handle performance.
  2. Smart Hearing Aids by Resound. By adapting to your environment, Resound hearing aids connect with your mobile device to work like Bluetooth headphones, adjusting for a loud restaurant, background noise, and differing tones. 
  3. Lively Wearable Activity Tracker. A mobile emergency response device by GreatCall that tracks activity and connects seniors to a team of highly trained assistance agents at the touch of a button, Lively also lets family member stay in touch so you know your loved one is safe when alone.
  4. Smart Pillbox. The uBox lets you set your medication schedule and sends you alert signals when it’s time to dose. It even reminds you to refill box compartments.
  5. Halo Monitoring System. Halo is the first to combine weather alerts like hurricanes and tornados, fire detection, and carbon monoxide emissions in a single unit.

Bask helps older adults use the technology they choose by offering virus protection updates, digital footprint security, help with any questions, and integrating their electronics and devices.

“We have a lot to learn about how to introduce new technology in the home,” Dunn said. “Seniors believe technology can help them stay connected and independent but they need a trustworthy support line to learn the ins and outs of new technology.”

 

Vanessa Sheets is a freelance journalist and professional blogger whose articles on health, fitness, nutrition, and technology can be found at vanessasheets.contently.com.

 

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Stay Connected and Independent: The Best Technology for Older Adults
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