Tech Gadgets Help Provide Care And Independence To Elderly
Latest Smart Technologies Help Provide Care and Independence to Elderly
One of the hardest things about growing older is the realization that there are some things that can no longer be handled alone. Asking for help can sometimes feel like relinquishing individuality and an elderly person sometimes fears becoming a burden on family members. But, thanks to the latest developments in technology, families and their older loved ones might soon have the answer to this conundrum.
Much like "smart cars" help drivers stay safe by alerting drivers when objects are close to vehicles, "smart tech" gadgets can now signal elderly persons and their caregivers if a patient's health or safety is in danger.
According to Eric Tangalos, M.D., a member of the American Geriatrics Society, there are two basic kinds of technology devices that can be used for elderly care: active intervention devices, which monitor vital signs and intervene when necessary, such as devices that maintain appropriate blood sugar levels in diabetics; or passive intervention devices, which are computerized equipment that observe patients' safety without having to intervene, such as a "granny cam" that uses motion detectors and the internet to help caregivers keep a safe watch on elderly loved ones when caregivers are away.
"The idea is to incorporate smarter technologies in elderly care to sit in the background and do the thinking for you," says Dr. Tangalos. "When it comes to caring for aging adults, families often face questions such as who should make the final decisions, who has control and are these monitoring devices meant for safety or invading one's privacy. However, smart technologies not only help families care for seniors, but they can also allow elderly patients to continue living independently in a safer environment."
When considering the use of smart technologies for elderly care, Dr. Tangalos makes the following recommendations:
- Family members and caregivers should evaluate their loved one's needs and ability to care for themselves. Talk with a doctor to explore options.
- Determine if you can change the environment first before introducing smart technologies. If a loved one seems to be falling often, a simple home improvement such as adding a railing by the stairs or grab bars in the bathroom could help prevent falls.
- Make sure both sides are comfortable with any course of action. It's important that adult children work with aging parents and come to a mutual understanding when it comes to their care.
SOURCE: Environics