Improving Lives:
Technology is helping to improve the quality of life for people of all ages across the globe. Advances in assistive technology for seniors is typically designed to enhance safety and well-being by supporting health, safety, and quality of life. The various types of technology can range from the most basic of things like hearing aids to new items that are digital and cutting-edge.
Common Assistive Devices:
- Hearing Aids
- ACTIVATOR Poles
- Buttoning Aid Hook
- Bed Handles
- Long Reach Comfort Wipe
- Medical Alert Devices
- Voice-Controlled Alarm Clocks
- TV Ears
- Uplift Seating Device
- Chair Lifts
- Computer Magnifier Software
- Tablets or iPads
- Robotic Vacuums
- Video Doorbell
- Monitoring Devices
- Voice Command Devices
Choosing the Right Device:
With so many options available for assistive devices, it can be a challenge to choose the right one. Below are some tips to help choose the right device for a senior’s needs.
- How to Research
- Online searches, customer reviews, and senior service agencies are great places to research different kinds of assistive technologies for seniors. When comparing like devices, make sure to use verified sources like Consumer Reports.
- Where to Buy
- Many assistive technologies can be purchased directly from the manufacturer, sometimes at a discount over store prices. Big box stores like Target, Walmart, or Best Buy often carry devices as well as online retailers like Amazon.com. It is always best to not only compare prices, but warranties and services plans between retailers as well.
- What to Consider before Purchase
- Compare consumer product reviews from verified sources
- Verify the manufacturer’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau
- Look for coupons or discounts
- Check on return policies
- Ask about warranties and service plans
Benefits of Assistive Devices:
- Help seniors age in place
- Increase independence
- Improve quality of life
- Enable social connections
- Protect senior safety
- Support senior health
- Enhance convenience
- Restore senior confidence
Smart Technology for the Home:
Smart technology for the home can enable seniors to safely age in place while improving quality of life. Smart technology can include:
- Voice-activated lights and alarms
- Video doorbells and monitors
- Chair lifts and other lift devices
- Accessible fixtures
- Mobility aids
- Adaptive switches for equipment
- Amplifiers for devices with sound
- Modern communication devices (Nextavenue.com)
Caregivers can assist seniors by helping them remember to use assistive devices, ensuring they are using them correctly, and helping to identify where a senior may need an assistive device. If seniors are unable to afford a needed devices, caregivers can help and encourage then to see grants and other types of aid. The site www.cta.tech has examples of such programs.
(ClearCareMonthly)