The Role of Technology in Modern Elder Care
Major technological advancements have changed the way people take care of elderly loved ones in their families. From availing proper medical assistance on one’s smartphone to monitoring vitals and recording all health updates, technology has successfully assisted senior care in a number of ways for varied requirements.
With the aging population constantly growing in India, customized technology for elder care is gaining huge attention and is fast becoming crucial as well. Nevertheless, with innumerable innovative solutions out there on the market, it is crucial to understand their work procedures and benefits to make the most of them. Read on to learn how some of the most effective and popular technological solutions are transforming elderly care in India, making it more compassionate, effective, and efficient.
Smart home devices for fall detection and enhanced independence
Sensor-based home monitoring devices strategically placed in different areas can easily detect sudden falls or unusual movements and send instant alerts to monitoring centers or caregivers. Similarly, smart speakers and assistants can help the elderly with regular tasks, like making grocery lists or medicine reminders, so they do not need to put in any effort physically. This is specifically useful for the elderly with mobility problems.
Other smart home devices that can help caregivers and families ensure complete safety and security for the elderly include:
- Automatic lighting solutions that improve safety within a home by illuminating dark spaces and pathways.
- Personal emergency response systems are worn as bracelets or pendants. These provide complete peace of mind for the elder care providers and their families by allowing the users to call for help by simply pushing a button.
- Even smart thermostats can be used in an elderly room to adjust temperature according to their routines and preferences, ensuring complete comfort without the need to handle complicated controls.
One of the greatest benefits of these smart home devices is that they work 24/7, giving seniors the flexibility to lead their lives independently, knowing that help is readily available during emergencies.
Health Monitoring Devices for Overall Well-Being
Health monitoring systems or devices can easily monitor the elderly’s sleep patterns, important signs, and physical activity, thus warning caregivers and families about prospective health issues.
Wearable health monitors track oxygen saturation, heart rate, and blood pressure in real-time, helping doctors and caregivers intervene immediately or as required.
Communication Technology for Seniors with Mobility Issues
For the elderly loved ones staying away from their families, it is very important to remain connected regularly. This ensures the entire family shares an emotional bond with the senior citizen while also keeping an eye on their health and overall well-being. In this context, smart communication tools and technologies, like social media platforms and video calls, can prove to be highly beneficial.
Telehealth offers more personal connection than traditional phone calls, giving seniors the flexibility to consult doctors and interact with family members easily. Remote medical consultations can be highly beneficial for seniors with mobility problems, improving their accessibility to efficient health care. This also offers advantages, like timely medical interventions and reduced health problems.
Here, online support groups and communities can also prove to be beneficial, offering a dedicated space for the elderly to share their experiences and seek proper advice. Aging individuals sharing common health conditions and interests can interact on these platforms, thus fostering a sense of support and belonging.
Use of Technology in Dietary Assistance and Personalized Care
Speaking of dietary assistance, different apps offer the elderly diet management tools and effective nutrition tips that can help them stay fit and healthy. These apps also offer proper records of nutrient intake and recipe suggestions based on the elderly’s health requirements. Senior citizens can use these apps to shop for groceries while also making the best use of community features to connect with other individuals with similar health objectives.
Then there are hi-tech food dispensers specifically designed to help senior citizens maintain a balanced diet. Caregivers and family members can use these devices for food portion control for the elderly and set time for meals to be delivered religiously. This ensures complete and regular nourishment for the seniors who may be facing problems in preparing or timing their meals.
Digital Tools for Caregiver Support
Caregivers for the elderly can use different digital tools, like online platforms and apps, to access proper support and training that can further help them offer complete support to the seniors.
Vesta Elder Care is one of the leading at-home senior care providers where caregivers are duly trained to provide the best care to those in need. Their care providers duly use these apps and online tools for continuous learning and to remain acquainted with the latest care techniques. Contact them now to make the elderly at-home care experience better for your loved one.
LEAVE US A MESSAGE
Dr. Prateek Bhardwaj is the COO of Vesta Elder Care. a physiotherapist by profession and Prateek joined the Vesta team at its time of inception. His years of experience have enriched Vesta to become a service-oriented organization and have guided the team through its many milestones