30 June 2023
Assisting parents as they age can be a challenging, yet rewarding, responsibility. With the advent of technology, we now have innovative solutions that can make this task easier and more effective. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 tech products daughters can use to ensure the safety and comfort of their aging parents living at home alone.
10. Tile Mate – Approx. $25
Starting the countdown is Tile Mate, a simple yet effective gadget that helps your parents keep track of their essentials. This Bluetooth-enabled device can be attached to keys, wallets, or any other items they frequently misplace. By using the Tile app on their smartphone, they can ring the device to locate their belongings. While it’s not exclusive to seniors, it’s a handy tool for parents experiencing memory lapses. Tile Mate can be conveniently purchased from the Tile official website or on Amazon.
9. Amazon Echo Show – Approx. $250
Next up is the Amazon Echo Show. This device offers voice-activated video calling, which can be a lifeline for your parents. They can make hands-free calls to you or their friends, watch videos, listen to audiobooks, or even follow interactive recipes. The drop-in feature also lets you check on your parents remotely to ensure their well-being. It can be acquired directly from Amazon.
8. iRobot Roomba – Starts at approx. $250
The iRobot Roomba, an automatic vacuum cleaner, ranks eighth on our list. This device can take care of regular cleaning, navigating around obstacles and under furniture. It can be scheduled to clean at convenient times, making it simple to operate and minimizing physical strain on your parents. You can buy it directly from the iRobot website or a tech retailer like Best Buy.
7. TabSafe Medication Dispensing System – Starts at approx. $300
TabSafe is a lifesaver for managing complex medication schedules. This automatic pill dispenser can manage and dispense medications, providing alerts for dosage times. It’s essential for parents on multiple prescriptions and can notify you if a dose is missed, promoting adherence and health. The TabSafe system can be ordered directly from the TabSafe website.
6. Lively Mobile Plus – Approx. $50 for the device, with service plans starting from $25/month
The Lively Mobile Plus, a compact, waterproof device offering fall detection, GPS tracking, and emergency response at the press of a button, comes in sixth. It ensures that help will be on the way if an incident occurs, providing peace of mind for both you and your parents. The Lively Mobile Plus can be purchased directly from the Lively website.
5. Fitbit Versa 2 – Approx. $180
Fitbit Versa 2 isn’t just a fitness tracker. It monitors heart rate and sleep patterns, offering valuable insights into your parent’s health. It’s user-friendly, with a clear, large display and long battery life. Plus, it includes fall detection and emergency SOS features, adding an extra layer of safety. It can be bought from the Fitbit website, Amazon, or major tech retailers such as Best Buy.
4. KardiaMobile EKG Monitor – Approx. $150
In fourth place is the KardiaMobile EKG Monitor, an essential heart health device for seniors. It’s a compact device that captures a medical-grade EKG in 30 seconds, detecting atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, tachycardia, or normal heart rhythm. It allows easy sharing of the results with doctors. The KardiaMobile EKG Monitor is available from the AliveCor website and Amazon.
3. GrandPad – Approx. $200 for the device, with a $40 monthly service fee
Coming in third is GrandPad, a simplified tablet designed for seniors. It offers video calling, photo sharing, email, and streaming services, with a simple, intuitive interface. It also includes 24/7 tech support, providing a great tool for parents to stay connected and entertained without the complexity of standard tablets. The GrandPad tablet can be purchased directly from the GrandPad website.
2. Nest Thermostat – Approx. $130
The runner-up on our list is the Nest Thermostat. This smart device learns your parent’s preferred temperatures and programs itself to ensure their comfort. It allows remote temperature control via a smartphone app, so you can ensure they’re cozy even from afar. Plus, its energy-saving features can help reduce their utility bills. The Nest Thermostat can be bought from the Google Store or other online retailers such as Amazon or Best Buy.
1. Arlo Pro 3 Home Security Camera – Approx. $500 for a 2-camera system
Securing the top spot is the Arlo Pro 3 Home Security Camera. This device ensures your parents’ safety with crystal-clear video surveillance, color night vision, and a 160-degree field of view. It provides real-time alerts for motion or sound detection and includes a built-in siren that can be activated remotely. This smart security system offers you peace of mind knowing that your parents are safe. The Arlo Pro 3 is available from the Arlo website, Amazon, or tech retailers such as Best Buy.
While each tech product offers unique advantages, the one that is most useful for your parents will depend on their specific needs and lifestyle. By leveraging these technologies, you can ensure your parents live safely and comfortably in their own homes, while also simplifying your caregiving tasks. Always remember, technology is not a substitute for personal care and connection, but it is an excellent aid in supporting our loved ones as they age.
