Gadgets Helping Older Adults Live Independently at Home
Few people want to be dependent on others, and as we get older, this becomes harder to avoid. Technology can help older adults remain at home and live more independently.
As we get older, most people want to remain active and independent for as long as possible. The goal is to age gracefully and independently, but that is often more difficult due to health, mobility, and aging problems.
Numerous devices are available that help us perform tasks and make life easier. Some of these items allow older adults to complete jobs around the house more efficiently and remain independent.
Technology has allowed us to take on tasks that once took up a lot of time and energy. For seniors and those with disabilities or health problems, these easy-to-use electronic devices will help them in their daily lives and stay safe from potential harm.
Some of the devices are not new - but we take them for granted. Other devices represent new technology. Either way, the use of technology improves lifestyle and helps older people from being dependent on others.
Electric Can Opener
It can be challenging for older adults to open cans by hand, as the tabs are challenging to pull. Arthritis and frailty due to aging can make this task much harder to complete.
Can openers are an option, but they still take some manual force to operate. Luckily, electric can openers allow for the faster and simpler opening of cans.
There are two types of electric can openers: handheld and standing. The handheld version clips onto the edge of the can and slices through the lid as you turn it with your hand. The standing can opener is the larger of the two and allows the user to open the can by simply holding it underneath the blade and turning it on.
Reach Extender
The reach extender has helped many people of all ages. A reach extender is a tool designed for reaching high shelves or reaching further than you can on your own. The two hooks on the end clamp together as you pull the trigger on the handle, which allows you to grab or move items from a distance.
When reaching for something high up, this tool is one of the best helpful gadgets for older adults to use around the house. The use of this tool allows a person to perform a task quickly and prevent a fall from standing on a chair or ladder to reach higher areas.
Sock and Stocking Slider
As we grow older, simple tasks such as putting on socks or stockings become more strenuous on the back and stomach. With the sock and stocking slider, older adults can pull up their socks without reaching down or bending their legs. This tool is one of the more helpful gadgets for older adults to use around the house because of its ease of use and ability to prevent falls at home.
Key Turner
For seniors who have arthritis, holding and turning a key can prove difficult. But with the help of a key turner, you will keep the key and twist it with ease. Place the key in the clamps of the key holder and use it to insert the key into the lock and turn it.
Medical Alert Devices
For older adults who live alone, the fear of a fall or medical emergency is always on their minds. Families are always concerned with the 'what ifs' of a loved one living alone. This concern is alleviated with a medical alert system.
These devices became famous with the old TV commercial with the line, "I've fallen and can't get up." Falls are one the leading causes of emergency room visits, hospital stays, and long-term care. When individuals have a medical alert device, they can summon help right away. Some devices have sensors that indicate a person may have fallen. If the person does not respond, the company will call 911.
AI Devices
Many people think of supercomputers or robots when someone mentions artificial intelligence. Simple electronic devices are available to remind older people to take medications, ask them if they are ok, and detect motion in the home.
Some of these devices can also serve as interactive companions, asking them how they are today or saying good morning. These devices can be programmed to remind someone to call a loved one, eat something, or go to the doctor.
GPS
For a person who may have dementia or Alzheimer's, a GPS device can keep track of them if they wander from their home. As a person's dementia progresses, they will probably require human supervision, but for a person with early dementia, this can help them live more independently.
There are numerous devices, gadgets, and electronics to help older adults operate around the home. These items and more will help seniors manage daily tasks.
The costs can vary depending on the device. Generally, most of these devices would not be covered by health insurance or Medicare; some Long-Term Care Insurance policies will pay for some devices.
Loved ones usually want to remain in their home; technology can help them whether they live alone or with caregivers.
About the Author
Mallory Knee is a freelance writer for multiple online publications where she can showcase her affinity for all things beauty and fashion. She particularly enjoys writing for communities of passionate women who come together for a shared interest and empower one another in the process. In her free time, you can find Mallory trying a fun new dinner recipe, practicing calligraphy, or hanging out with her family.
Mallory Knee
Contributor since September 25th, 2020
Editor's Note
Most of us desire to maintain our independence for as long as possible. Yet, our bodies, minds, and health all deteriorate as we age. Whether we like it or not, we become reliant on others.
By preparing for the costs and burdens of aging, we can prevent placing this burden on our families. We have the resources to prevent total dependence, thanks to Long-Term Care Insurance. We have access to a variety of high-quality care options, including care at home, when we own an LTC Insurance policy. Instead of serving as caregivers, our loved ones will have more time to be with us. We will have the choice to remain at home with high-quality care. We are also shielded from the increasing costs of long-term healthcare by our assets.
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How Much Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cost?
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If your loved one is lucky enough to own a Long-Term Care Insurance policy, be sure they use it. Sometimes families wait, thinking they can save the benefits for a rainy day. Waiting on using available Long-Term Care Insurance benefits is not a wise idea.
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