Smart Technology Help for Seniors
Using Smart Technology to Keep Your Senior Loved One Safe at Home
Caring for an elderly family member can be a challenge, especially if you're not always nearby. Thankfully, with the rise of smart home technology, it’s easier than ever to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for your loved one.
From advanced security systems to gadgets that can assist in emergencies, these tools are designed to ensure seniors stay safe and secure in their own homes.
Smart Home Devices to Help Keep Your Senior Safe
Smart devices can give you peace of mind by offering an extra layer of safety and support for your loved one at home. Here are a few ideas for how you can use tech to manage their well-being:
1. Control Everything with Your Smartphone
With simple, affordable devices, your loved one can control various home appliances and systems through Wi-Fi using an app. This means you can manage things remotely or set things to run automatically.
Smart plugs: These devices plug into outlets and let you turn appliances on and off with your phone. If you forget to turn off the TV or need to activate a fan, you can do so with a tap. You can even set timers for specific times.
Smart lighting: Control lights, switches, and dimmers from an app, adjusting brightness or setting timers from anywhere.
Smart thermostats: Adjust the temperature of your home from anywhere. Some models even learn your loved one’s routine, keeping the house comfortable at all times, which can also help save on energy costs.
2. Voice-Activated Help
Smart assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Apple’s Siri can be more than just fun gadgets. They’re helpful tools for older adults who may have trouble seeing small screens or moving around easily.
With just a few voice commands, seniors can:
- Set up reminders for medications
- Have emails and texts read aloud
- Turn lights or electronics on and off
- Make phone calls or video calls
- Get in touch with emergency services if needed
3. Monitor Safety from Afar
If your loved one lives in an older home or struggles with keeping track of things like smoke alarms, smart monitoring systems can be a huge help. You can keep an eye on potential risks and receive real-time updates about things like:
- Fire alarms
- Smoke detectors
- Gas or water leaks
- Carbon monoxide levels
- Indoor air quality
You can even schedule maintenance or get alerts if there’s an emergency, all through your smartphone or computer.
4. Enhance Home Security
For seniors, home security is often a top concern, especially if they live alone. Installing smart security systems provides additional peace of mind.
Choose from a range of options:
- Motion detectors that ignore pets
- Door/window sensors to notify you if something is opened
- Smart locks for doors
- Wireless or wired cameras for doors, windows, or even inside the house
For seniors with mobility or memory issues, these systems can even alert emergency services automatically in case of urgent situations. You can also sign up for professional monitoring services to respond to alarms in real-time and notify first responders.
Using Technology to Help Caregivers
Smart technology isn’t just helpful for seniors—it can also ease the burden for caregivers. By working with your loved one to test out new devices, you can stay connected and make sure they are safe, even if you can't be there in person.
No matter what devices you choose, it's important to review privacy settings to protect your loved one’s personal data and ensure that you’re only sharing the information you’re comfortable with.
By incorporating these technologies, you can help ensure that your senior family member stays safe, independent, and comfortable in their own home.
We serve seniors at home in Athol, Priest River, Sandpoint, Coeur d'Alene, Hauser, Harrison, Hayden, Hayden Lake, Post Falls, Moscow & more.
It is best to have all the facts before making a decision about your older loved one’s care, especially when considering technology assistance and online privacy. At Visiting Angels, we offer complimentary care evaluations, wherein we can explain the services we are able to offer. During these free, no-obligation care consultations, seniors and their families can ask questions, discuss costs, and get a better idea of what a Visiting Angels care plan would look like in practice. If you are interested in scheduling a care consultation with our team, call our office at 208-415-1000 or use our online contact form to get in touch. We look forward to meeting you and your family!