Technology enhances independence in older adults

It is amazing how far technology has come in just a couple of decades. From the internet and smart phones, to computers, tablets, watches, plus the abundance of smart home devices, the choices are numerous.

But, did you know today’s technology is enhancing the lives and maintaining independence for older adults?

Yes, and here are just three tech devices I think are great for those over age 75:

GrandPad^R Tablet

Say goodbye to the iPad, Kindle, Chromebook, whatever tablet you have, and say hello to a new user friendly device- The GrandPad^R!

What is so great you ask? Well, let me enlighten you…

• It has an 8 inch screen with protective case and easy to grip stylus.
• Comes with charging/viewing cradle that requires no plugging into the actual device.
• The device is insured and will be replaced for free if it is broken.
• Contains about a dozen apps displayed as large buttons on the screen, such as:
  • Video and Zoom Calls
  • Internet
  • Music
  • Help
  • Photos
  • Games
  • Radio
  • Email
  • Weather
  • Camera
  • Transportation
  • Toolbox
  • Articles
  • Lookup
• The best part? Unlimited 4G LTE, meaning no need for passwords, Wi-Fi, or a modem!

Not tech savvy? It comes with a companion app for caregivers and family members to download pictures, videos, and assist in making adjustments or updates to the GrandPad^R through their own smartphone.

Buddy the Emotional Robot^R

For years experts have been saying how detrimental isolation and loneliness is for human beings in general. After this past year, I think everybody appreciates the power of companionship. Well, allow me to introduce you to the companion of the 21st Century, Buddy the Emotional Robot^R.

Buddy will roam around your house just like a pet, but won’t need feeding, cleaning up after, or training. It is an emotional robot that reacts to your emotions, needs, or wants. He will not only interact with you, but children and grandchildren as well! Buddy can also be connected with any other smart devices in the home and can serve as a security device.

Here is a full list of all that Buddy can do:

• Security
• Smart Home
• Social Interaction
• Personal Assistant
• Multimedia
• “Edutainment” (Education and Entertainment)
• Elder Care

Amazon Care Hub

The powerhouse of Amazon has come up with a non-invasive way to check in on your loved ones using their technology through the Alexa smart home devices. Known as “Care Hub”, it allows users to link their account with the account of the senior they are taking care of. Once the accounts are linked, caregivers are sent alerts throughout the day indicating “movement or activity” without worrying and feeling the need to constantly call and check-in.

Another positive feature of Care Hub is allowing seniors to contact their caregivers during distress or an emergency by saying, “Alexa, call for help”. Informing the caregiver through an immediate push notification, giving them the opportunity to respond and determine if hospitalization is necessary.

A list and description of all that Amazon’s Care Hub can do to support older adults living alone can be found on their website.

In conclusion, I encourage all older adults, who wish to maintain independence, to embrace what technology has to offer.

There are so many incredible options, and more that are being invented daily, to enhance the life of all that are aging. It is especially wonderful for the peace of mind of caregivers who do not live nearby.

I would love to know if you have a favorite smart device or form of technology that assists you daily and improves your overall wellbeing and independence. Please share in the comments below!

-Courtney