Using Technology for Seniors to Age in Place

Using technology for seniors to age in place can help keep seniors safer.

Families often feel more at ease with technology aimed at keeping the aging population safe. They know that their loved one is safer by being monitored while staying independent in their home. This USA Today reports on some technology advances that can help seniors who wish to stay at home.

We use a variety of technologies with our clients to help them remain both independent and safe. Sensors can keep families informed. Sensors can monitor if the refrigerator was opened or if medications were taken. Furthermore, certain sensors can even detect changes in activity and eating and sleeping patterns. A bed sensor lets families know if their loved one has gotten out of bed. Most importantly, it can recognize emergency situations such as falls.

Emergency pendants are widely used throughout assisted and nursing care facilities. However, they are becoming more common for seniors who are aging at home. Using a pendant at home lets emergency situations be handled quicker. 911 will be called by pressing the button on the pendant. In addition, most offer two-way voice support. And some can even automatically detect falls. However, the pendant needs to be appropriate to the person using it. Someone with dementia won’t remember to push the button.

Many medication dispensers are available.  At Arizona Elder Care, our nurses help our clients with medication management by setting up these medisets. Some of our clients are reminded by caregivers to take their medication. Some have electronic medisets with programmed reminders.  Either way, this will help medication be taken consistently and on time, which is the goal.

Technology advances can be helpful in keeping seniors safe in their home. However, it is important to recognize when your loved one requires more care. Aging Life Care professionals at Arizona Elder Care can help. They can assess both the senior and their home in order to come up with a plan for safety.  Call us at 928-639-1583 to schedule an assessment.