Photo by Georg Arthur Pflueger on Unsplash
The population of senior citizens in the United States is growing quite rapidly. The numbers say that it rose by 9.4% between 2020 and 2023, which came to 59.2 million.
As this section of our population grows, we need to take a look at our society and nation from their perspective. As one grows old, the need for support rises slowly but surely. Cognition, mobility, and memory amongst other abilities start to see a decline.
Research shows that people who have experienced a fall during adulthood, are at a 21% higher risk of developing dementia. Additionally, dementia and Alzheimer’s account for almost 11% of deaths, the next in line being coronary diseases.
These numbers highlight to us the need for better solutions to support senior living. Fortunately, we live in a world where modern technology and services can step up to address these challenges easily.
Tech and services can offer seniors much more autonomy, security, and a better quality of life. Let’s take a look at some essential tools and services that can help seniors live a happier life.
Let’s Talk Tech for Seniors
Smart Devices for Everyday Convenience
From waking up to saying goodnight, smart devices can help with almost everything. These devices can help with tasks like setting reminders, controlling appliances, or making calls, all without having to move a finger.
Motion sensor lights can improve safety considerably by automatically switching on and reducing the risk of falls. While cleaning can be taken over by robot vacuums.
Useful mobile applications can call for services like house cleaning, cab rides, and food and medication delivery.
Safety Technology
Safety can be a huge concern for senior members of our society, especially those living by themselves. Good for us, technology has some practical solutions to offer.
Mobile apps can allow caregivers to monitor locations in real time, so seniors can be reached anywhere and anytime.
Research from the American Heart Association shows that wearable health technology can help reduce hospital readmissions and improve quality of life. This is possible because wearable devices track key health metrics continuously, giving feedback as you go.
Some medical alert systems are also available that have fall detection capabilities to ensure quick emergency responses.
Tools for Overall Health
Many platforms are now available to effectively manage medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with doctors. Virtual health assistance is also growing in the sphere of geriatric support.
The World Health Organization (WHO) mentions that, globally, more than 2.5 billion people need assistance in their daily lives. Therefore, it is important to make advancements in assistive technologies as we go ahead.
As of today, we have tech such as digital hearing aids and screen magnifiers ready for the elderly. These tools don’t just support their living but also significantly improve their quality of life.
Services That Support The Seniors
Virtual Retirement Communities
Virtual retirement communities allow the elderly to stay in their comfort space while connecting with the world. They provide access to social activities, fitness classes, and healthcare consultations, and all of this happens online.
Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. These communities can help reduce isolation and keep the seniors active.
Pet Services at Your Rescue
Our little furballs aren’t just cute but can also help the elderly have better physical and mental health.
Having a pet works on 3 fronts, namely physical health, mental health, and social connections. There are many programs out there that facilitate this bond by offering ways to connect the elderly with furry companions.
If you already have a pet, services like pet boarding and pet sitting may be of more interest to you. Pet-friendly cabs, pet pick-up and drop, and pet grooming and walking can be ordered in just a matter of minutes.
Understandably, some seniors avoid pets because of the maintenance that comes with them. Cleaning up after pets can increase the burden instead of relieving stress. To add on, pet waste can harm your grass, pollute water, and harbor pathogens, remarks Scoop Soldiers.
The good news is, there are solutions for this as well. You can look for dog waste removal & deodorization services and leave the rest to them. From cleaning your yard to getting rid of the smell, they take care of everything.
If you’re worried about taking your furbaby needing the vet, even that can be taken care of. You may consider an online vet consultation or have a vet visit your place by making a booking online.
Home Maintenance Services
Broken wires, leaking pipes, window cleaning, and so on, home repairs and maintenance do not take a break. Taking care of these can get very tiring and challenging for seniors.
Luckily, there are many service providers that are available at your doorstep with just a few clicks. From assembling furniture to trimming grass, they will do everything. Our seniors deserve to live in homes that comfort them, and these services provide just that.
The integration of technology and services is transforming senior living. From smart devices to supportive services, these innovations are empowering seniors to live life on their own terms.
By addressing health, safety, and emotional well-being, these tools offer peace of mind, and the option to age gracefully.
