We think of our parents as someone who can’t work the remote control. Well, have you ever seen a remote control, who really knows what all of those buttons mean? Not to mention the size of the font on the remote…I dare you to find the input button on a new remote!   Some technology is well suited for the elderly person at home. Here are my top 6 things you should at least think about if your parent is at home, but may need some help.

1. Amazon Echo – If your parent suffers from memory loss, remembering the date, the weather and what time their favorite show comes on can be easily accomplished by asking Alexa. Oh by the way Alexa doesn’t get frustrated if you ask the same question several times.  It was voted top three usable new technology for seniors by Forbes Magazine.

2. – Dementia Clock – American Lifetime- This large screen clock allows impaired seniors the ability to tell time with few distractions. It shows the day of the week, what part of the day it is, the time and the date, and it also has battery backup in case of a power outages.

3. A Power lifting Recliner – This is a great investment for a senior that needs a little head start to get up and out of the chair. Unlike some of the other recliners, this one has a very nice look and design to go with the functionality.

4. Tile tracker – Tile Mate is a must. You simply attach the tile to your wallet, keys or anything else you don’t want to lose. If the item is lost, you simply look up the app to activate the beeping mechanism on the tile (it will also make your phone beep).

5. Emergency Alert system – Most seniors do not get an emergency pendant, because of the ongoing costs, and the confusion of how to set things up. The Freedom Talk 2 is a very simple 2-way voice system that does not have a monthly fee. It is water resistant for showers and bathroom trips (where most falls occur). You program the 5 numbers into the phone (you can program 9-1-1 or your cell phone).

6. Automatic Pill Dispenser – Live Fine pill dispensers sound an alarm when the pills should be taken and release only the pills that are scheduled. It has 28 slots and a safety latch, so accidental overdose can be prevented.

Good luck shopping, I hope this motivates you to introduce your parents to some of the latest technology out there.

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David Wood, Owner, SLO Caregivers
David Wood, Owner, SLO Caregivers

San Luis Obispo Caregivers was created in memory of my Grandfather, Tracy Gordon Wood II. My mission is to honor him by providing trustworthy, compassionate, and competitively priced caregiving services to seniors in my community. After 25 years in the financial industry and the decision to leave behind a successful 6-year position as the Chief Operating Officer of SESLOC Federal Credit Union, I created San Luis Obispo Home Care. This decision served my desire to make a difference and support the growing needs of seniors in my community. As my business grew and I leaned heavily on my financial background, I realized there was a much more cost-effective way to provide seniors with the care they deserve. This realization led to the creation of San Luis Obispo Caregivers, a referral agency and SLO Senior Placement, a free resource for families looking for independent or assisted living options for seniors. Ultimately, I listen, assess your situation and recommend various options that are available for your family.