Although seniors are becoming more and more technology-savvy in today’s world, many are still showing skepticism about the latest devices. But in many cases, technology can be a lifesaver whenever a loved one is in trouble.

Before we move forward, it’s important to consult a primary care physician for ideas on how to keep a senior safe, and to determine which options are best for them now and in the future (since many cases vary).

In the meantime, many experts believe that technology can help seniors be able to engage with others, remain healthy, and stay safe. With that said, here are 7 of the best tech devices for better senior living:

1. Smart Locks

“Every once in a while, people may forget to lock their doors, while can be a huge headache, whenever intruders come in without anyone expecting them to. And for seniors, home invasions can be scary for them,” says Finlay Marsh, a marketing blogger at UK Top writers and Elite assignment help. “Fortunately, smart locks make it easier for people to check the status of doors, and they can lock or unlock them remotely if need be. Though, you may want to consider smart locks that don’t have a keypad option, if someone has memory issues.”

We have a list of the 5 Best Smart Door Locks here on this site if you would like to have a look.

BONUS PODCAST: Ring Video Doorbell 2 and Stick Up Cam Hands On and Windows Media Center RIP – HGG428

2. Smart Smoke Detectors

Just as everyone should have working smoke detectors throughout their house, there’s still plenty of concern (and rightfully so) about how easy it can be for an older person to not hear an alarm—and how they might not react quickly enough, if there is ever a fire emergency. Luckily, there are smart smoke detectors that not only deliver an audible siren inside the house, but can also alert friends, neighbors, and caregivers via smartphone alerts.

Smoke Detectors have come a long way since we reviewed the Nest Protect – Smoke + CO Alarm back in 2013. You can see the live review here on Home Tech HT149. 

Today, there are many options when it comes to these devices. Check out the reviews at The Best Smoke Detectors of 2020.

3. Medication Reminders And Dispensers

Ever worry that your elderly loved ones might forget to take their medications, or take too much of them? Then worry no longer!

Thanks to technology, medication management systems are available to own. These systems can do the following:

• · Issue reminders
• · Dispense meds
• · Monitor medication usage, AND
• · Notify caregivers when doses are missed

Devices like the Hero can automatically monitor and dispense medications to those who need it and have app and control for those who need to monitor the device. This service has a low membership fee and a one time set up cost.

4. Health Management

Sometimes, loved ones need extra help taking care of themselves, health-wise. The good news is, Telehealth Systems can give you the power to do the following:

• · Monitor blood pressure
• · Check pulse and heartbeat
• · Check blood glucose levels

With this technology, you won’t have to constantly make a doctor’s appointment for routine checks.

Learn more about Telehealth Technology at the Healthy Lifestyle / Consumer Health section at the Mayo Clinic Website.

5. Wearable Emergency Contact Systems

Wearable emergency contact devices provide on-call monitoring and may include fall alerts, which are very beneficial for older people. While some may charge a monthly fee to use, luckily there are others that don’t require a contract, and can be used at your convenience. Plus, these wearable devices can be stylish and or more discreet, if someone doesn’t want to feel embarrassed at the prospect of wearing clunky bracelets and necklaces with built-in emergency buttons.

Be smart about your purchase and check you options at How to Choose a Medical Alert System from Consumer Reports.

6. Smart Screens

“It’s never been easier to keep in touch with loved ones than with smart screens,” says Isaac Ellis, a business writer at Bestbritishessays and Revieweal. “All you have to do is connect to Wi-Fi, and then you can make video and voice calls to family, friends, telemedicine appointments, emergency services, etc. You can even use voice control, which lets you call up your contacts, and allows you to check the news, weather, trivia, and more, via voice commands.”

Get a complete look at the Amazon Alexa at Alexa for Seniors

7. Sensors That Detect Water Leaks

Sometimes, water leaks can occur without expecting it, which can be a real pain, money-wise and sanity-wise. And in many cases, elderly people may fall victim to water leaks, perhaps due to not knowing about them until it’s too late.

Instead, why not opt for a few smart water-leak sensors in your loved one’s home, and place them near areas where potential leaks can happen (e.g. by the water heater, the tub, sink, or toilet). Once you set up the sensors, you’ll be sure to learn when the next leak may occur. When a leak occurs, the system will send an alert (audio and visual) to your smartphone.

Get a list of leak detectors for your smart home here.

Conclusion

Ultimately, we shouldn’t keep our seniors in isolation as technology (and the world, in general) continue to evolve. Therefore, why not bring them along in the evolution by setting them up with these 7 tech devices that can transform senior living for the better? In this way, seniors will be closer to friends and family, and not be left behind.

Kristin Herman writes and edits at Boom Essays and OX Essays. She is also a freelance writer for online resources, such as Big Assignments. As a tech enthusiast, she blogs about the latest trends in technology and social media. And, as a project manager, she has overseen writing projects nationwide.