Connected home devices can help seniors maintain their independence and age in place, with initiatives such as Best Buy Health and Alarm.com’s Wellness independent living solution providing free digital literacy programs, product bundles, and activity-based sensors to detect potential risks. Wearable devices like the Philips Lifeline and Apple Watch SE also offer emergency communication and fall detection. For mobility assistance, chair and stairlifts can be installed both indoors and outdoors. Technology can truly be a boon to seniors and their families by providing peace of mind, allowing independent living, and addressing common challenges such as medication management, mobility, and emergency response.
The Importance of Connected Home Devices for Aging in Place
As the Canadian population continues to age, more and more seniors are choosing to live at home for as long as possible. Known as “aging in place,” this option allows seniors to maintain their independence while staying in the comfort of their own home. However, this can come with risks and challenges, which is where connected home devices come in.
One such device is the Apple Watch, which can be set up to call emergency services and loved ones in case of a fall. Mary Sue O’Connor, a 75-year-old from Whitby, Ont., wears an Apple Watch for this very reason. She finds it preferable to wearing a pendant around her neck, and it gives her daughter and friend peace of mind.
According to Vividata, there are over 7.1 million Canadians aged 65 and older, with almost 2.7 million residing in Ontario alone. Of these seniors, nearly 2.2 million live at home, or about 81.5%. It’s no wonder, then, that aging in place is such a popular choice. David Cravit, chief membership officer at CARP, a non-profit advocacy group for seniors, notes that more than 95% of members prefer to age in place.
Of course, aging in place can be expensive. Fortunately, there is financial help available. Seniors looking to make their homes safer and more accessible may be eligible for federal and provincial tax credits and grants. In addition, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage from HomeEquity Bank can help seniors unlock equity in their home without requiring monthly mortgage payments until they decide to move or sell their home.
Connected home devices can also be a significant help to seniors looking to age in place. Best Buy Canada, the country’s largest consumer electronics retailer, offers a variety of technologies for the home, including wearable monitors, smart speakers, wireless sensors, and medication dispensers. These devices can help seniors retain their independence while also providing peace of mind to loved ones.
In conclusion, connected home devices are crucial for seniors who choose to age in place. They offer added safety and security, financial help, and independence. With the Canadian population continuing to age, it’s essential to consider these options for ourselves and our loved ones.
Connected Home Devices for Seniors’ Health and Safety
Connected home devices can be of significant assistance to older adults looking to maintain their independence and age in place. One such initiative is Best Buy Health, which offers free digital literacy programs and product bundles that include Geek Squad installation, allowing seniors to have their technology set up for them.
Activity-based sensors around the home, like those offered by Alarm.com’s Wellness independent living solution, can detect changes in activity patterns that may suggest a risk. Meanwhile, TELUS SmartHome Security offers alerts and notifications, automation, and 24/7 professional monitoring.
Cameras can also be installed to keep a virtual eye on loved ones, with video calls providing an effective way to gauge their wellbeing. Wearable devices, like the Philips Lifeline and Apple Watch SE, provide seniors with a way to chat with a helpline in the event of an emergency. The Apple Watch SE also offers fall detection and an emergency SOS feature, while the Apple Watch Series 8 includes additional sensors to help gauge the wearer’s health.
Overall, these devices and services can help seniors maintain their independence while also providing reassurance to loved ones. With the Canadian population continuing to age, it’s crucial to consider these options for ourselves and our loved ones.
Technology as a Boon to Seniors’ Health and Independence
Technology can be a huge help to seniors looking to maintain their health and independence. The Telus Health Companion service costs $54 per month and provides emergency monitoring through a GPS and cellular-enabled Apple Watch SE. Medication alarms and dispensers are also available, with some solutions including monitoring to notify caregivers if a loved one misses a dose. Chair and stairlifts can also assist with mobility and can be installed both indoors and outdoors.
For seniors who enjoy volunteering or being out and about, apps like Find My Friends can provide peace of mind to family members. Technology can truly be a boon to older people and their families by offering them the assurance and freedom they need to age in place.
By providing solutions to common challenges such as medication management, mobility, and emergency response, technology can make a huge difference in the lives of seniors. It can enable them to live independently while also providing loved ones with the reassurance they need.
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