As we get older, the desire to be independent and stay in our own homes only grows stronger for most people. Sometimes, that’s easier said than done. For many, aging means accepting some assistance to maintain their quality of life. Luckily, we live in a world where technology is making that goal easier to achieve. Technology for seniors is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s here now! Technology is helping older adults stay safe, connected, and confident in their daily lives. From simple mobile apps to advanced smart home gadgets, there are countless tools designed with older adults in mind. For this blog, when discussing any phone features or apps, we will be referring to iPhone users, as the majority of Canadians use iPhones. Almost everything discussed is also applicable to Android users.
How Can Technology Help Older Adults?
Over the last few decades, technology has transformed almost every aspect of life. How we live, get around, work, and interact with one another. Perhaps no group of individuals knows just how true that is more than seniors. They have seen the entirety of the technological revolution. They saw everything from the initial adoption of computers into our homes to the normalization of self-driving cars and Artificial Intelligence.
Many ageist stereotypes portray older adults as not being involved with or needing technology. The truth is it’s a powerful tool that can reduce the physical demands of daily tasks while improving quality of life. Often, mobility or memory challenges arise with age. Simple tasks like going to the store, remembering appointments, or even answering the door can become more difficult. Technology can bridge that gap by providing solutions that make life easier without requiring physical strain. It helps older adults do more with less effort.
Technology for Seniors vs Technology for Youth
Smartphones, social media, and the latest gadgets are what most people think about when they talk about technology. Most technology is designed with younger users in mind. This can make it harder to use and navigate modern technology for older adults. Technology for seniors needs to look and feel different. What works well for someone in their 20s or 30s might be confusing and inaccessible to someone in their 70s or 80s.
Dealing with overly complicated devices is one of the biggest challenges for older adults wanting to use technology. Small buttons, tiny text, and confusing menus can make things more confusing than helpful. Choosing products that prioritize simplicity and intuitive design can help older adults get more out of technology. With so many different products and services available, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what can provide benefits to your daily life. That’s where we can help. Let’s go over some of the best tech products and services for seniors.
Mobile Apps for Seniors
Mobile apps are a big part of everyday life for many. But not everybody knows just how useful and potentially life-changing even some of the simplest apps can be. Most phones come with built-in apps that can help you stay organized, productive, and independent.
Apps That Help You Remember
For iPhone users, the built-in Reminders app can help schedule daily tasks, medication times, or appointments, making it easier to stay on track without relying solely on memory. It can help you rarely forget anything important ever again! The notes app is another great example. It’s perfect for jotting down ideas and thoughts that you want to go back to in the future. Use it to create to-do & grocery lists, or jot down instructions or important phone numbers.
Delivery Services for Older Adults
Having almost anything delivered right to your door might just be one of the biggest conveniences of modern-day technology. Services like DoorDash & SkipTheDishes allow users to order meals from countless local restaurants with just a few taps. Never order from restaurants because your cooking is better?
Services like Instacart can deliver groceries right to your front door, too! Services like these are especially helpful for older adults who may have mobility challenges or prefer not to drive. Additionally, community-based services like Meals on Wheels provide nutritious, home-delivered meals designed specifically for older adults. These services don’t just offer convenience, they help maintain nutrition and independence while aging in place.
Transportation Services for Seniors
Getting around can become harder as you age, but it’s very important to an older individual’s health and well-being. Studies show that access to transportation is important for any senior wanting to maintain their health and independence. This is especially true for cold and harsh climates like Winnipeg. Handi-Transit, a service provided by Winnipeg Transit, offers accessible transportation for those who qualify. Ride-sharing apps like Uber also have features that allow users to request assistance or accommodate mobility devices. Having reliable transportation options allows older adults to continue attending appointments, visiting loved ones, and participating in community events
Apps to Help You Stay Connected
Staying socially connected, much like staying physically active when you get older, helps you continue to live a happier and healthier life. Apps like FaceTime and WhatsApp make it easy to video chat with family and friends, no matter where they live. Great for seniors who have family and friends who live outside of their city or even their country. These tools help combat loneliness and keep older adults engaged with their loved ones. Moderate use of social media apps like Facebook also offers a way to stay updated with family events, photos, and news.
Brain Training Apps
Keeping your brain active in your retirement years helps it stay strong and healthy. Studies show that engaging in daily activities that challenge your brain supports cognitive health, helping older adults maintain independence longer. Mobile games like Wordle, Candy Crush, Sudoku, and Word Cross offer fun ways to stay mentally sharp. Some apps like Duolingo can stimulate your brain while also giving you the benefit of learning a new language. Staying mentally sharp has never been so fun.
Best Gadgets for Seniors
Gadgets are more than just fun toys. They’re powerful tools that can support safety, health, and improve daily living for seniors. From voice-activated assistants to medical alert devices, the right gadget can make a significant difference.
Smart Home Devices
One of the most difficult parts of interacting with technology for many older adults is the sometimes complex and confusing user interfaces. Devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple’s Siri can be useful for older adults. These voice-activated assistants can answer questions, set reminders, play music, control lights, and even call family members, all without needing to navigate complicated screens.
However, it’s important to note that setting up and troubleshooting these devices is often not a simple endeavour. It’s helpful to have someone tech-savvy assist with initial setup or troubleshooting, as even the simplest gadgets can have hiccups from time to time. But once set up and working properly, they can be a great tool to support independent living.
Medical Alert Devices
Medical alert devices, also called Personal Emergency Response Systems, are one of the most important examples of how technology for seniors can help provide safety and live more independently. They provide 24/7 access to emergency help at the push of a button. They can work both at home and on the go. These devices connect users with trained emergency responders who can connect the user with a loved one or caregiver. Emergency help can be called quickly if needed.
A variety of different medical alert options are available on the market today, each designed to meet the needs of different lifestyles and medical needs. For example, some come with fall detection sensors, and others come equipped with mobile GPS technology so they can be used outside of the home as well. Some even come in the form of a stylish smartwatch, packed with other useful functions to promote active lifestyles!
Medication Dispensers
Maintaining proper medication use is very important for the health of many older adults. With the average senior living with at least one or more chronic conditions, medications can help you keep doing all of the things you love. Poor medication management can also increase the risk of experiencing a fall or other medical complications. Automatic medication dispensers, like the MedReady Medication Dispenser, help to ensure that the right dose is taken at the right time. These devices have alarms to remind users and can even notify caregivers if a dose is missed.
Technology for Seniors to Help with Aging in Place
For most of our lives, home can be where we feel most comfortable and safe. But as we get older, the walls we spend most of our time in can become very dangerous, especially when living alone. Falls, accidents, and other medical emergencies can happen when nobody is around to help. Thankfully, technology for seniors can provide an extra layer of safety and protection. While devices like medical alarms can quickly get you help should anything go wrong, other devices can lower the chances of an incident occurring in the first place.
Stair Climber
Navigating stairs can become a serious hazard for older adults. One missed step could be life-changing for most older adults. Stair climbers are mechanical devices that carry riders safely up and down staircases, reducing the risk of falls. More importantly, they empower older adults to use all levels of their home confidently. Having a stair climber means you don’t have to limit yourself to one floor or consider moving just because the stairs are no longer manageable.
Smart Doorbells
For older adults, doing something as mundane and simple as answering the door can become risky if you’re rushing. Smart doorbells, like Ring or Nest, allow you to see and speak to whoever is at your door without having to get up quickly. It gives you more time to get up and make your way to the front door if it’s something you need to interact with.
This added convenience also provides a layer of security, helping you screen visitors and avoid unnecessary stress. It’s another great example of how technology for seniors can make everyday life safer and more manageable. However, much like smart home devices, they can be complex and difficult to maintain and troubleshoot. Make sure you have someone who is tech-savvy to help you out along the way.
Technology for Seniors Helps Keep Independence
Technology shouldn’t just add convenience, it should empower you! Technology for seniors does exactly that! So don’t ignore technology and online services. It’s not just something that “the kids are using.” It can help you lead a more independent and safe life. By incorporating technology into your daily life, you can continue living life to the fullest!
Disclaimer
*This article is meant to be informational and should not replace the advice of a trained healthcare or financial professional. What works for some individuals might be harmful to others. Consult a professional before making any significant changes.