Caring For Seniors Using Tech, Telehealth
Taking care of aging parents is difficult given the range of issues from dementia to vertigo to vision and correlated mental health decline for both seniors and caregivers, but technology advances are helping. Here is a breakdown some services to help make caring for your parents and relatives a bit easier:
(1) Medication Tracking:
Medisafe – Medication reminder that also provides tips, refill reminders, progress reports and discounted prescription offers. Caregivers and health care providers can also be connected to the account. Free and available at the App Store and Google Play.
(2) Monitoring:
eCare21 – Remotely monitor your loved one’s glucose, heart rate, sleep, physical activity and more. With 24/7 monitoring via devices such as a FitBit or smart watch, caregivers and healthcare providers can gather information to help them be proactive, even from a distance. Monthly subscriptions start at $7.95. App is free and available at the App Store and Google Play.
Or, if you want to physically see your parent with dementia/Alzheimer’s in their home, you can install cameras depending on the situation. Elderly “nanny cams” in an assisted living facility or nursing home legally vary from state to state. For example, in Texas you can legally put a camera system in your senior’s nursing home room but if the camera is going into their home and they live alone, consider the pros and cons—some seniors like the idea, others see it as an invasion of privacy. It is important to consult with them first and get the consent of the person to install cameras and never put them in places where privacy is expected, such as bathrooms.
Reolink – A rechargeable battery security camera that is wire-free and safe for seniors and can be moved from room to room. This camera uses a PIR motion sensor to detect motion that provides real-time alerts in case of an emergency. Footage can be viewed from an app on your smartphone to keep tabs on your elderly parent.
(3) Apps for Dementia:
Dementia Caregiver Solutions - An app that provides expert advice on challenging dementia related behaviors, including stress management.
MindMate - Founded by three former caregivers, an app that allows for caregivers and their loved ones to participate in a variety of activities together such as puzzles, simple stretches, nutritional tips and more. MindMate also features a diary section for caregivers to help record their memories to share with family and friends.
Luminosity - A popular app used in cognitive functioning studies that features research-based activities designed to challenge cognitive capabilities. The app has seven different types of activities to choose from targeting a different ability like testing memory, logical reasoning and speed. The free version allows users to play three games a day.