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Technology can improve the quality of life for seniors as it helps them complete daily tasks, stay socially connected with others, and enjoy their leisure time. Various tech-oriented innovations can also give caregivers and family members the peace of mind that their older loved ones are safe. While technology often seems to be advancing so fast that it’s hard for anyone to keep up, we found some gadgets, electronics, and other tools are easy to use and perfectly suited for seniors.

Senior-Friendly Phones

So many phones are on the market these days that many older adults are unsure which one to purchase. When it comes to senior-friendly smartphones, Verizon has you covered. From devices with physical keys that make texting and dialing a breeze, larger fonts, and rugged construction, you can find an option that suits your personal tastes as well as your budget.
You can also use the voice assistant in your phone to make life easier. For instance, those with
Apple products can ask Siri to make a call for them, and Tech Radar explains that those who have an Amazon Echo can similarly have Alexa dial up a call. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how voice assistants can lend a hand.

Voice Assistants for Older Adults

Amazon Echo, Google Home, and other voice assistants are soaring in popularity around the world. For seniors, these types of devices can issue medication reminders, send alerts about doctor’s appointment, command smart home devices, play music, set timers, read recipes, and
much more.
Reminder Rosie is a voice assistant that is especially aimed toward older adults. With a large digital screen, this device looks like an alarm clock. The main difference between Reminder Rosie and other assistants is that it records up to 25 personal reminders in the voice of a caregiver or family member. Though it doesn’t have all the capabilities of other voice assistants, it may be just the ticket for some seniors.

Virtual Reality for Seniors

Virtual reality technology is pretty amazing these days, and it’s not just for young people to play games. In fact, Rendever was created particularly for seniors. This virtual reality platform is helping many older adults overcome social isolation, a very serious issue among the senior population.
With Rendever, seniors can put on the headset and revisit places from their past, including their childhood neighbor or wedding location. And even if they can’t travel anymore, they can check things off their bucket list by virtually visiting hot spots around the globe. Senior living centers around the world have been installing Rendever, and you can also purchase it for home use.

Smart Home Devices for Safety

According to an AARP study, 90% of people age 65 and older want to stay in their own homes as they age, and smart devices can help ensure their safety. The great thing about them is after they are installed or set-up, these devices are simple to use and monitor. Smart security cameras, alarm systems, and video doorbells are extremely popular.
You can also find smart pill dispensers that can detect if your loved one forgot to take their pills or took the wrong ones, as well as smart lighting, fall detectors, and other helpful technology.
Using these types of devices can assure caregivers and family members that seniors are healthy and safe when they are alone.
Technology can be complicated, but fortunately, many companies have created various gadgets and other tech designed specifically for seniors. From buttoned phones to helpful voice assistants and smart home tech, seniors can benefit easy-to-use technology to make their lives both enjoyable and safer. Growing older becomes simpler, thanks to these clever devices and options.

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About the author 

Dr Michael Chua PT, DPT

Dr Michael Chua is a physical therapist practising in Home Health, Skilled Nursing Facilities and Acute Care Hospital. His clinical interest involves pain management, geriatrics and dementia management. He enjoys treating patients and bringing out the best in them using positive treatment approaches, his dynamic work setting in a rural area provides an opportunity to treat a wide range from geriatrics to orthopaedics.

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