Back to News & Media

Technology Takes Aim At Seniors

04.16.2016

  • tech

    Cutting edge technology may seem like it is geared toward savvy teens and young adults, but technology aimed at older adults continues to grow.

    Today’s technology is being utilized to help seniors live at home longer and more independently with devices that can monitor medication, locate someone with the tendency to wander or detect a fall.

    According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 59 percent of seniors go online and 77 percent of older adults have a cell phone, though the numbers are likely higher now since the numbers are based on 2012 reports.

     Aging in Place Technology Watch says to expect more care delivery technologies in the future, which will give more options in devices and apps that can help monitor home health. Telehealth is expected to expand offering remote monitoring, consultations and prescribing, according to Aging in Place Technology Watch.

     Because so many older adults utilize smart phones and tablets, the app market aimed at helping them also is growing. Popular apps include those that can offer an instant heart rate similar to a pulse oximeter, others offer help with medication scheduling and reminders, magnification of text for easier reading, as well as many games designed to help keep the mind sharp, according to seniornet.org.

     The Center for Aging Services Technologies (CAST), outlines up and coming technologies for older adults related to safety, health and wellness, social connectedness and electronic documentation.

     Social connectedness, for example, includes phones with amplification and large buttons, social networking websites just for seniors and easy to use video conferencing systems. These types of technologies help older adults stay socially connected to others improving their quality of life and potential for improved health outcomes, according to CAST.

     The increase in senior-based technologies also can have a positive impact on caregivers as they are able to help care for loved ones remotely, and better stay on top of their health changes, according to CAST.