According to research 95% of the elderly people today find comfort in staying at home than in skilled nursing facilities. While the finding sounds convenient in terms of minimizing costs, it is likewise inevitable for some of us not to worry about their safety. If you’re one of those busy people with aging parents at home, it’s only natural for you to be bombarded with thoughts about whether they are able take their medicines on time; need assistance; or free from any accident while taking the stairs or shower. To give you the peace of mind, check out some of the latest technology enumerated below that may serve as efficient daily living aids for your parents.

1. Big-button cell phone ($147) –This mobile phone is specifically designed for the elderly. Unlike the typical cell phones with small screens and QWERTY pads, this gadget is equipped with an easy-open clamshell design, extra loud speakers, big backlit buttons, bright screen with easy-to-read numbers, and a straightforward service contract. An example of this device is the Jitterbug, which offers three SOS buttons: one for 911, one for the operator to reach anyone she wants to reach, and one programmable button for reaching relatives.
2. House- cleaning robot ($120 to $500) – If hiring a private caregiver is not an option, you can just buy this innovative robot from your local big-box store. House cleaning robots aid your elderly parents in keeping the house clean and safe. Most of the house-cleaning robots, such as the iRobot Roomba can automatically clean the house at the simple push of a button.
3. Temperature-activated flow reducer ($40) – This device will aid your elderly at home in readjusting the water balance without losing the hot water altogether.
4. Automatic pill reminder – This is a type of pill box with built-in alarm system and timer that beeps when it is time for your elderly parents to take their medicines. Some of them send your parents medication reminders through phone, e-mail, or pager.
5. Personal emergency response systems ($15 to $50 a month) – Also known as medical alarms, these devices are designed to help your elderly parents connect to a 24-hour call center in case of emergency. The alarms are equipped with built-in emergency buttons, which when pressed will send a signal to the nearest response team allowing them to know the situation and immediately send help to the location. Medical alarms are very elderly-friendly. They can be worn as bracelets or necklace.

Posted under Health Technology
Tags: iRobot Roomba, Jitterbug, medical alarms, QWERTY pads.