When you think of gadgets for elderly people, your mind might leap to personal alarms, stairlifts, bath chairs, and other, bulky assisted living appliances.
But the truth is, many older people (and their families) are benefiting from a mix of cutting-edge technology and nifty little gizmos.
Used correctly, these gadgets for senior living can help:
- Track health and medication
- Improve connections to reduce isolation
- Aid everyday tasks to prolong independence
Here, we look at 10 of our favourite gadgets to help make senior living at home easier, safer, and more comfortable.
We’ve split our list into high-tech devices and affordable, everyday gadgets.
5 must-have high-tech gadgets for elderly people
1. Smart speakers (virtual assistants)
Smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home are growing in popularity — and with good reason. You can talk to these devices, ask for the latest news, weather updates, or play your favourite songs.
You could even have the speaker synced up to other smart devices in your home, such as light bulbs or plugs. That way, you can switch on lamps or switch off the TV using only your voice.
And once you’ve mastered your virtual assistant, you can set alarms and reminders, schedule appointments, and add to your shopping list.
2. Tablets
In a previous blog post, we wrote about how we used technology to keep residents connected during COVID; tablets were central to that. Our residents used iPads to make video calls to loved ones, helping to stave off feelings of loneliness during the lockdown.
The same idea applies to you or your family member at home. You can use a tablet to stay connected or for many other purposes, such as streaming TV shows or music, playing games, doing crosswords, reading books, or browsing the web.
3. Smartwatches
Like the above devices, smartwatches can help you stay connected while tracking your health and well-being. From making calls to monitoring sleep, heart rate, and even GPS location, smartwatches can help you and your family enjoy real peace of mind.
Various brands offer smartwatches, including Apple, Android, and FitBit.
4. Doorbell cameras
If you or your loved one are reluctant to answer the door (or find it challenging to get to the door quickly), a doorbell camera could be just what you need.
This smart gadget for seniors lets you see who’s at the door before you answer it, while some even let you communicate with the person outside—ideal for making your home feel safer.
Popular doorbell cameras include Ring and Google Nest.
5. Robots (inside and out)
It might feel like science fiction, but more and more people are using robots at home to help with everyday tasks. Two, in particular, are very popular now: robot vacuum cleaners and lawnmowers.
Both take a labour-intensive job off your hands, meaning you can enjoy a cleaner home and garden without the effort of pushing a hoover or lawnmower around.
5 affordable everyday gadgets to make life at home easier
1. Motion sensor lights
Falling at home is a significant risk as we get older. And moving around in the dark makes things even riskier. Motion sensor lights (like these) can be plugged into a free socket and automatically switch on when you pass by.
The light stays on for 30 seconds, helping you see where you’re going in the middle of the night. Perfect if you need to use the bathroom in the small hours.
2. Sock aids
Getting dressed by yourself can feel like a massive milestone in maintaining independence. But if you’re struggling with mobility, simple tasks like putting on your socks can feel almost impossible.
Sock aids (like this one) can ride to the rescue. They make getting your socks on easier without bending over or balancing on one foot.
3. Long-handled shoe horns
Similar to the sock aid, long-handled shoe horns (like this one) can help you complete your outfit (and maintain your independence) without painful bending or twisting to put on your shoes.
Other long-handled versions of everyday items are also available, including hairbrushes.
4. Jar openers
Opening jars can be particularly challenging if you or your loved one has arthritis. Jar openers (like this one) can be used on various lid types and sizes, helping you access the ingredients you need to cook for yourself.
5. Key turners
Probably the cheapest gadget on our list, key turners (like this one) can be purchased for as little as £3.50. They simply slide over your key’s head, making it easier to hold and turn. That way, you can get in and out of your home with less fuss—especially if you have a weaker grip.
Remember: gadgets can only do so much
While these contraptions can help, they mustn’t be used as a replacement for face-to-face care. If you or your loved one need more help and attention day-to-day, a nursing home like Fulford could be the answer. Whether for short-term respite care or something longer-term, our friendly staff are on hand to help you live a comfortable, fulfilling life.
If you’d like to learn more about Fulford, please contact us on 01904 654 269. We’re ready to listen and happy to help.