June 7, 2016
Today’s older adults are overrun with an explosion of high tech products focused on bettering their independence and safety and providing life enhancement. At the touch of a button or two, they can instantly visit “in person” with friends and family through Skype, wear a necklace that responds with emergency assistance when needed, even stay safe from wandering with specialized sensors attached to clothing or shoes.
The issue becomes how to inspire seniors (and those who care for them) to shift from a low-tech mindset to embracing all that’s available to them, something that’s always top of mind for us at Continuum of St. Louis. A recent Caring.com survey showed that as few as 15% of families providing care for senior loved ones are actually using technology.
The common hurdles:
- Stigma. Many people see the use of certain technology, like medical alert jewelry, as the loss of their independence.
- Help. Troubleshooting problems with technology causes many older adults and their caregivers to give up on trying to get gadgets to work.
- Time. Finding time to learn and try something new is particularly challenging for busy families who provide care for their loved ones.
If you’re willing to try and incorporate healthcare technology into senior caregiving but are facing these complications, call on Continuum of St. Louis for help. Our competent and patient care aides can help overcome the technological barriers by:
- Making recommendations for technology that suits a loved one’s personality and issues
- Setting up and providing training on how to use the technology
Whether it is teaching someone how to enjoy applications on a tablet device, or setting up a personal medical alert system, we can keep seniors connected to family and friends and help them enjoy life to the fullest. Call us any time at 314-863-9912 to learn more.