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Can technology revolutionise senior care?

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Julie Lord
Can technology revolutionise senior care?

 

We live in an increasingly technological world that not only facilitates connection to others and the outside world like never before but also helps us to enjoy new hobbies and perform daily activities with ease. The younger generation, having never known any different, are comfortable with ever-evolving technology and pushing the boundaries of exploration but many elderly people are still missing out on the benefits.

 

This is understandable given that they haven’t had as much exposure to the devices and platforms many of us take for granted. However, this doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be given the opportunity and encouragement to use them. The lives of elderly people receiving care often find their sphere narrowing in a variety of ways with formerly enjoyed relationships and hobbies becoming lost to the passage of time.

 

The brain requires stimulation to remain active and engaged no matter the age. Social support such as befriending services and activities, whether they are carried out in person or online, is proven to protect against cognitive decline. There is often resistance from the elderly to try new ideas but the following are user-friendly tech solutions that can enrich an elderly person’s life whether they are in residential or receiving companion care at home.

 

Hearing aids

 

A hearing aid can open up life in an instant and although they have been around for years, modern hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible, rechargeable and ensure perfect hearing no matter the background.

 

Virtual reality

 

VR has exploded onto the market in recent years especially in the computer gaming industry yet there is no reason why it should remain out of reach for older audiences where VR and video games can enhance the lives of those with low mobility. A virtual reality headset can be used to transport the elderly to locations they never dreamed possible all from the comfort of an easy chair. VR can also be used to re-experience memories of the past as well as the opportunity to participate in new virtual hobbies/experiences.

 

Smartwatches

 

The older generation is the generation of watch wearers and will feel quite comfortable trying this piece of kit. Although many smartwatches can be used as a phone for calls and messages, the best ones for the elderly will monitor their heart rate and blood pressure. They can also detect a fall and a panic button can also signal for help with just one click.

 

Smart toilets

 

Although perhaps not as exciting as smartwatches and VR, smart toilets can be an invaluable way of monitoring bathroom trips and building a daily diary of an elderly person’s toileting routine. Any changes will alert their live-in carer to any possible health issues which can then be investigated further.

Retro radios

Another item that the elderly generation usually feels very comfortable with are retro-style radios, which combine old style with new technology. This includes easy to use controls including a volume dial that never quite reaches zero so a user can always tell when it’s on.

 


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