Technology That Empowers Older Adults 

Technology can be a powerful tool for helping older adults maintain their independence, stay connected with loved ones, and enhance their quality of life. When choosing technology for older family members, consider devices that prioritise accessibility, safety, and connection. Here are some thoughtful technology options that can make a meaningful difference: 

Smart Speakers: Your Voice-Activated Assistant 

As mobility and dexterity naturally change with age, completing everyday tasks can become more challenging. Smart speakers with voice assist, such as the Amazon Echo or Google Nest, can be especially helpful for seniors with mobility issues or visual impairment as they can be used without having to get up and move around. They can help with a range of tasks including turning on the lights, setting medication reminders, sharing the time, reading the news, or playing favourite music and radio stations. These devices can offer assistance when no one else is there. 

Library at Home: E-book Readers 

Reading remains one of life’s great pleasures and provides numerous benefits for older adults, including enhanced memory retention, sharper decision-making, and better sleep. The Kindle Paperwhite is an excellent option, offering adjustable lighting and font sizes, increased line spacing, talking menus, and some models have text-to-speech functionality to play audiobooks. Additionally, consider a subscription to Audible or a similar service for avid readers with visual impairment, which can be linked to a smart speaker for enhanced enjoyment. 

Technology You Can Wear: Health and Safety Monitoring 

Physical activity remains an important part of everyday health for older adults. Even 30 minutes of movement a day can make a difference. For older individuals, smartwatches can support more than just fitness goals—they become valuable tools for monitoring health and safety by tracking heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep, and step count, which provides valuable insights into overall health.  

Some models even offer GPS tracking, which may be particularly beneficial for seniors with memory issues or those who enjoy outdoor activities. In addition, some devices can detect falls and have emergency SOS features, ensuring prompt assistance in case of accidents. On top of these health measures, the watch also tracks workouts and reminds users of their daily movement goals. A variety of wearable smart devices are available from Apple, Garmin, Fitbit, Samsung, and Google. 

A Picture Worth a Thousand Words: Staying Connected 

Everyone needs social connections to survive and thrive. But as people age, they often find themselves spending more time alone, which may increase feelings of loneliness and social isolation. This can substantially impact health and well-being. Digital photo frames can help people feel more connected to their loved ones by displaying a rotating collection of family photos. Alternatively, video calling devices such as the Meta Portal can make video calling easier and more accessible. 

Tablets with Safety in Mind: Your Digital Gateway 

According to Pew Research Center, 44% of adults 65 and older currently own a tablet. These can be a great way of staying connected to others while also helping with everyday tasks that may have become more difficult, including: 

• Online shopping 

• Puzzles and games which can help support cognitive function and social connectedness, such as Words with Friends or crosswords 

• Listening to favourite bands, artists, or specific genres of music 

• Listening to audiobooks 

• Video calling 

• Using the internet 

• Staying informed about the latest news, weather, or sports scores 

• Taking pictures and videos 

When considering a tablet for an older person, look for devices that support adjustable font size, voice activation, sound or volume adjustment capacity, and hearing aid compatibility. 

Technology doesn’t have to be intimidating or complicated. The right devices can help older adults maintain their independence, stay connected with family and friends, and continue enjoying the activities they love. Take time to consider how these tools might enhance your loved one’s daily life and help them continue living life their way.