As people age, they often begin to experience an influx of physical and mental complications, ranging from minor inconveniences to daily aches to incapacitating disabilities. Time wears and tears at the body and mind, and coping with the side effects can be challenging for seniors without the proper resources and support.
Unfortunately, young and non-disabled people often overlook the massive toll seemingly simple responsibilities can have on senior citizens. Between failing fine motor skills and unsettling cognitive confusion, elderly folk often feel disheartened and isolated by an onslaught of unpredictable disabilities.
Thankfully, modern tech corporations have stepped in, creating helpful gadgets that aid elderly folks through their day-to-day life. Technological advances have changed the game for seniors who need a helping hand to navigate tasks that would otherwise be challenging or impossible. That said, it can be intimidating to jump into the vast ocean of electronic devices, especially if you’re not well-versed in up-to-date tech.
Fortunately, senior-specific devices simplify the process with user-friendly, accessible features that are easy to understand and navigate without needing in-depth technical knowledge. If your elderly loved one has shown interest in technology or requires assistance navigating their daily life, read on for seven gadgets perfect for aging adults and disabled seniors.
The Lively Smart
First up on the list of helpful, senior-friendly gadgets is the Lively Smart—a cellular device designed with simplicity and practicality in mind. Though developed with ease-of-use in mind, the Lively Smartphone from Lively Direct is not devoid of customizable features, enabling elderly folks to operate their device in a way that fits their lifestyle. Whether they need an emergency-only device for peace of mind or want to connect with friends and family with the touch of a button, the Lively Smart is a perfect solution.
Equipped with large, magnifiable text, loud, clear speakers, and big, bright displays, the Lively Smart aims to combat complex difficult-to-use smartphones. That way, seniors can engage with technology by browsing the web, chatting with loved ones, and playing entertaining mobile games on a simplified gadget.
Motion-activated lights
If your senior loved one worries about dark labyrinth-like hallways during the night, making it challenging to navigate through the house, it might be time to invest in motion-activated lights. When up and about during evening hours, seniors fumbling for tiny light switches run the risk of bumping into unforeseen objects or tripping over cluttered walkways. So, instead of relying on ill-placed switches, consider installing automatic lights in dimly lit areas to increase the safety of your senior loved one’s home.
Additionally, automatic lighting is particularly critical in the bathroom, a space that can quickly become hazardous if seniors aren’t careful. Between bending down to use the toilet and walking across potentially wet floors, slips and falls can happen at any moment. By installing a motion-activated light, your elderly loved one can use the bathroom worry-free. There are even toilet-specific devices that light up the inside of the basin, perfect for those looking for extra guidance without flipping on ultra-bright lights during the night.
Nanny cam system
If your elderly loved one lives independently but is worried about potential accidents and hazards, consider installing a camera system that can detect movement in and out of the home. That way, you can avoid constant worry by checking in on them throughout the day. However, it’s critical that you discuss installation with your loved one, making sure they feel comfortable with the camera set up. Some systems also allow back and forth virtual chats, allowing elders to communicate during the day or in case of emergency.
In addition to an added layer of safety, camera systems can act as a security feature, warding off or catching intruders should they invade your senior loved one’s space.
The Grandpad
If your elderly family members have adverse feelings toward technology, it may be challenging to convince them to hop into the 21st century and utilize helpful gadgets. However, devices like the Grandpad make it easier to acclimate to modern tech, giving seniors the ability to dip their toes into the water before diving in too deep with complex electronics. The Grandpad is an accessible tablet with straightforward menu screens, intuitive applications, and hassle-free operations, perfect for technologically challenged individuals.
Ultimately, seniors can browse the web, video chat with family, play brain-building games, and stream their favorite tunes, keeping them occupied and connected with this simplified tablet.
Television listening aids
Unfortunately, hearing loss is prevalent amongst aging adults, with more than half of people over 65 experiencing auditory complications, ranging from partial impairment to total deafness. Though hearing aids are a popular solution, some seniors need additional assistance, especially when it comes to audio-based entertainment, like watching TV. Often, hard-of-hearing elderly folks will blast the volume, causing disruptions for others in the home and causing additional damage to their ear canals.
Fortunately, Bluetooth headphones and specialized hearing aids can eliminate harsh television commentary, containing the sound and enabling users to hear clearly. That way, your senior loved one can enjoy their favorite shows without disturbing the entire household.
Tracking stickers
Another excellent gadget that can help seniors experiencing memory loss is small tracking devices that connect to frequently lost or essential objects. For example, many elderly folks have difficulty keeping track of remotes, keys, phones, and wallets, resulting in anxious scrambles to locate their belongings. With tracking devices like the Tile sticker or Apple Airtag, your elderly loved one can tag their items and check the location on a computer or mobile device. That way, any time an object is misplaced, they can see its approximate position and sound an alarm leading them to their precious belongings.
Robot vacuum
If your elderly loved one experiences pains and strains from simple tasks, like cleaning, it might be time to invest in a robot vacuum like Ecovacs that can save them unnecessary discomfort. Repetitive motions like sweeping or vacuuming can cause spasms, causing many seniors to abstain from tidying altogether. Instead of allowing dirt and grime to build up, consider purchasing an automatic sweeper that can keep floors free from dust and debris. There are even models equipped with mopping features, enabling the device to collect dry waste in addition to wiping up wet spills.
Wrapping up
Whether your elderly loved one requires minor assistance navigating age-related roadblocks or simply hopes to enter into the world of modern technology, senior-friendly devices can meet their unique needs.
Gadgets like the Grandpad offer connectivity and entertainment, while surveillance devices and automatic lighting reduce the risk of potential accidents. Ultimately, digital avenues can significantly improve senior’s daily lives and offer you peace of mind while away from them.
