MY mother is 86 years old. Like all seniors, she needs extra care, even if she is quite independent, slow and thank God, not bedridden. She cooks her own breakfast and still makes a mean almondigas.
In spite of this independence, I am always on the watch, literally, with a Eufy camera in her bedroom and a monitor on her bedside. She has a tablet so she can have morning video calls with my sisters from the East Coast using Messenger. She also has a large flatscreen TV that has YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, Disney, Tubi and whatever entertainment channel she wishes to watch or listen to. On-ear Bluetooth headphones is also part of her tech, as well as large button remote control.
Of these channels, Tubi TV (https://tubitv.com) is most familiar to her. The free-for-all web- and app-based streaming service features a lot of vintage movies—for free, but with ads.
She also has a one piece of low-tech—an emergency bell—which she has already rang once. Not for a real emergency but to tell me that the TV remote isn’t working and needs replacement batteries.
Technology has the change both the perception and reality of aging rapidly change. Gone are the days when growing older meant a decline in activity and social connection. WiFi, the internet, home modems and video devices are revolutionizing the lives of seniors, offering tech-driven opportunities for safety, convenience, and a vibrant social life.
My foremost concern for my mother is safety, especially from falling. She once slipped in the toilet and I wasn’t around quickly enough to pick her up. She also had a minor heart seizure in bed and it wasn’t addressed until a few minutes later. Both instances became the reason for the camera and bedside monitor. Some seniors have more pressing health issues, especially that involving dementia or Alzheimer’s disease which can cause temporary memory loss and wandering that can trigger significant anxiety for the family and danger for the senior. Fortunately, technology provides a robust safety net.
Medical alert systems, worn as pendants or bracelets, allow seniors to call for help in an emergency with a simple button press. Advanced models even incorporate automatic fall detection, automatically sending alerts to smartphone, if the individual is unable to do so themselves. For those with memory impairments, GPS trackers offer peace of mind, allowing caregivers to locate loved ones quickly if they wander from home.
Smart medication dispensers take the guesswork out of managing prescriptions, automatically dispensing the correct dosage at the right time, reducing the risk of missed doses or accidental overmedication. And with the rise of online services, seniors can order groceries, have meals delivered, and even consult with doctors remotely, minimizing the need to leave the comfort of home.
Smart home technology further enhances safety by automating lighting, ensuring walkways are illuminated to prevent accidents, especially during nighttime trips to the bathroom or kitchen. Voice assistants, like Alexa, Amazon Echo or Google Home, transform into helpful companions, responding to verbal commands to make calls, send messages, set reminders for appointments or medication, and even control household appliances like lights, thermostats, and entertainment systems.
Social isolation is a significant concern, but technology offers a lifeline to combat loneliness and foster meaningful connections. User-friendly video calling devices, with simplified interfaces and large buttons, make it effortless to stay in touch with family and friends near and far. Specialized social media platforms designed for older adults, like ‘Senior Planet’ which is for people 50 years old and up, and Stitch, an app for socializing and dating, create welcoming online communities where seniors can connect with peers, share interests, and build friendships.
Virtual reality (VR) technology opens up a world of possibilities, allowing seniors to experience immersive travel, visit museums, attend concerts, and even relive cherished memories, all from the comfort of their homes.
Technology’s potential extends beyond everyday conveniences and socialization.
Assistive robotics is emerging as a promising field, with robots like ‘ElliQ’ or offering companionship, cognitive stimulation, and assistance with daily tasks. There are now smart wheelchairs which have sensors to detect direction, speed and tilt.
Taking the smart wheelchair even one step higher are exoskeletons—for some years have been developed to assist with walking, standing, and lifting, helping seniors maintain their independence and physical well-being. These wearable robotic devices provide support and reduce strain, making movement easier and reducing the risk of falls. As this technology advances, we can expect to see more seniors regaining mobility and confidence in their physical abilities. Even self-driving cars are on the horizon, promising increased mobility and freedom.
Some solutions are simpler. Large-button remote controls and voice-controlled appliances cater to those with dexterity challenges. Many organizations are making a concerted effort to design websites and apps with accessibility in mind, using larger fonts, simpler layouts, and clear language to ensure online content is easily navigable for seniors. As an example, Malaya Business Insight recently introduced a read-text feature, using AI to narrate stories.
While the digital world may seem overwhelming to some seniors, tech savviness can be taught. It’s essential to introduce these tools gradually and be patient, provide hands-on support, allowing seniors to learn at their own pace and overcome any initial hesitation. With a little encouragement and guidance, seniors can embrace technology and reap the rewards of a safer, more convenient, and more connected life.
