Over the last several years, many people turned to technology for support with necessities. From online grocery shopping to virtual physician appointments, different types of technologies made the pandemic easier to navigate. Even those older adults who were previously reluctant to embrace tech products started using video-chat services, like Zoom and Skype, to connect with loved ones.
Technology continues to evolve. If you are a senior interested in exploring more ways to make everyday life a little easier, we have a few suggestions for you to consider.
Helpful Tech Products for Older Adults
- Smart watch: If you don’t already have one, you might be surprised to discover how many features smart watches have. While most have the capability of texting and making/receiving phone calls, some offer much more. Seniors can track their activity level, sleep quality, heart rate, and blood pressure. Some like the Apple Watch have built in GPS tracking.
- Travel apps: If you are a senior who likes to travel, the COVID-19 pandemic probably curtailed that. If you are beginning to plan vacations once again, it might be helpful to invest in a travel app. For example, the free version of TripIt helps you plan and save every detail and confirmation email on your itinerary. Another nice feature is the platform allows users to share their schedule with friends and family who aren’t traveling with them. This helps family members stay connected with one another no matter their location.
- Philips Lifeline: Because each person has different needs and health concerns, Philips Lifeline has developed a variety of tech solutions. They range from independent call alert pendants to a fall-detection device. The company also offers a GoSafe 2 system for older adults who enjoy and want to maintain an active lifestyle. Among its many features is two-way communication. It’s an option to keep seniors on the go, while offering their adult children and loved ones peace of mind.
- GrandPad: This innovative device combines the best features of a laptop and a cell phone into an easy-to-use tablet. Designed with older adults in mind, GrandPad allows users to make and receive video calls, browse the Internet, listen to music, check and send email, play games, and much more.
- Door cameras: Home safety is a concern for people of all ages, but especially for older adults and those who live alone. Fortunately, there are several types of video cameras that can alert homeowners that someone is outside their house. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. The Best Outdoor Home Security Cameras for 2023 ranks these products on a variety of factors ranging from price to battery life.
- Echo dot: Amazon continues to make improvements to this popular device that features Alexa, a voice-controlled assistant. The senior can use an Echo Dot to tell Alexa to set alarms, control lights, lock doors on the house, play music, create lists, and even to call for help in case of an emergency.
Finally, there’s another form of technology a senior might want to explore and that’s an electric car. If it’s an idea you’ve be considering, Are Electric Vehicles a Good Choice for Older Adults? offers a quick overview of the pros and cons of owning one of these.
Learn More About Life Plan Communities
If you are looking for a lifestyle that gives you the freedom and flexibility to pursue favorite pastimes without the burdens of homeownership, a life plan community might be a solution to explore. How Life Plan Communities Help Enrich Lives is a guide you can download at no cost. It covers everything from the wellness benefits these communities offer to the daily opportunities residents have to socialize and connect with peers.
