Yes, in today’s world, most of us have some kind of gadget that we can’t live without. The internet world is changing every day and unless we’re living under a rock, we’re aware of new technologies. But technology for seniors has brought a revolution in seniors’ living with gadgets for seniors. Read on to know more! Must read: A Quick & Easy-To-Understand Android Guide For Seniors
The inception…
Since the introduction of the internet on January 1, 1983, people have been hooked on the vast options available and all the possibilities of the world wide web. We started with simple gadgets such as big desktop computers and game consoles like Odessey, which is considered the very first home video gaming console. From there, a lot has changed and manufacturers and developers have created incredible gadgets that are meant to make the lives of people easier. These gadgets are not just being used by young people though. Senior citizens are also becoming more aware of the different technological advancements that are available on the market. Even seniors are slowly becoming more involved and interested in gadgets that can help and assist them in their everyday lives and technology for seniors is enormously growing.
Advantages of gadgets for seniors in the digital era
But one must ask, why do we need gadgets? We have lived a long time without them. So, what are the advantages of incorporating gadgets into our lives? Well, here are some of the reasons that will show just how important gadgets are in improving our daily activities.
1. They can help us save money
Developers are continually thinking of ways on how they can help people save money with their technologies. And a lot of modern gadgets can indeed help us save money. Gadgets that are made to conserve energy like programmable thermostats and solar panels are specifically made to help the user save money by eliminating unnecessary power usage. Lots of brilliant inventions have proven that gadgets are capable of helping us manage our finances.
2. Source of entertainment for many
Imagine the time before TVs were invented in 1927 in San Francisco, California. Since then, people have been using television as an extremely popular and excellent form of entertainment. And as time progresses, more modern devices have been introduced such as video games, music systems, and musical instruments–they became popular in no time at all. This clearly shows that the introduction of more and more gadgets that we use for our amusement has become something people can’t live without.
3. They can keep us safe
Now, who could have thought that some of the smallest gadgets such as spy cameras and pinhole cameras can add incredible security to our homes? With the ever-changing world of gadgets and new technologies, CCTVs, and door security cameras have saved a lot of people’s lives. Their different security features are made precisely to help secure homes and businesses. Incidences of burglaries and break-ins are significantly decreased because of modern technologies.
4. Keep us connected with the rest of the world
In the past, people have used different ways to communicate with others. For most of human history, people have to physically deliver a message to people they needed to talk to. When great distances were the issue, telegraphs or even pigeons were used to send messages. When the internet was introduced and modern gadgets have emerged, now we can easily talk to people, be it to other countries. Emails, social media messengers, and the like made communication easier and faster than ever before. This has transformed both our personal and professional lives. And now wishing someone a happy birthday can be done with just a click of a button. So, for elderly users, there are specific gadgets that are created and invented to specifically help them in their day-to-day activities. Here, I list the latest and the most convenient technological wonders for senior citizens. These must-haves will surely improve their day-to-day lives. Related articles: 5 Useful Apps for Deaf Users or Hard of Hearing 5 Useful Android Apps for Blind People
10 useful & must-haves gadgets for the elderly
1. Automatic Pill Dispenser With Alarm by Ellie
This is a wonderful gadget for seniors taking medications. Sometimes, they tend to forget things like keeping tabs on their medications. This pill dispenser is designed to remind them of their medication times and what to take –– in the morning or the evening. You can enable a smart alarm and Ellie will use AI learning so that they will be reminded as necessary. This pill dispenser can accommodate 30 days worth of medicines so you don’t have to keep refilling the medicines in the individual compartments. All you need to do is put in the medicines you need for a month, set the alarm, and then you are good to go.
2. Calf and Leg Massager by Human Touch®
When we grow old, there will be a lot of changes in our bodies. And one of them is the way our blood circulates through our body, especially to the parts that are far away from the heart, like the feet. Unfortunately, a lot of elderly individuals experience symptoms like cold feet, pins and needles, and heaviness in feet that may indicate that blood is not circulating properly. Fortunately, there are calf and foot massages that can help you lessen those symptoms. This gadget integrates CirQlation and Figure-Eight technologies that make it seem like you are being massaged by a professional masseuse. This can be very beneficial to elderly individuals that experience symptoms of poor blood circulation, helping them feel better and also make walking easier. Not only does this gadget massages you, but it also blows warm air and has under-foot vibrations to create a holistic reflexology massage experience.
3. Hearing Aid by Auditech®
Hearing loss in seniors, also called presbycusis, is the slow degeneration of hearing. Unfortunately, it has been proven that one in three adults over 65 years of age has experienced this. Presbycusis affects the ability to hear high-pitched sounds like a telephone ringing or a microwave beeping. This can be caused by factors such as continuous exposure to loud sounds and the condition can be hereditary. Technology for seniors solves this issue with a hi-tech hearing aid. Having a hearing aid will immensely improve the lives of elderly users. Studies have shown that people who have hearing problems have an increased chance of developing dementia and reduced cognitive functioning. Certainly, hearing aids are essential to seniors for them to still live a normal life.
4. eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac
Fortunately, eufy has come up with the best possible solution to help users have an easier time when it comes to cleaning. Introducing the BoostIQ RoboVac! This gadget is compatible with Alexa and you can use voice commands to operate this appliance. With its height at just 2.85 inches high, it can easily slide under beds, tables, and cabinets. There is nowhere that this little wonder can’t reach.
5. Ring Alarm Panic Button
From all the items in this list, this may be one of the most important since it involves security. This panic button may be small but it is very effective in adding security for elderly individuals. All they need to do is press the button for 3 seconds and with the optional 24/7 monitoring service subscription for just $10 per month, you can be assured that there will always be someone who is just a button away that can help you. This device can be placed on flat surfaces like a bedside table or the wall–wherever it can be easily accessed. If you are someone that lives alone or is confined to bed, then this is a gadget you must get.
6. Ring Video Doorbell
Sometimes, not everyone can easily answer the door when the doorbell rings. Elderly individuals, in particular, can have a hard time getting to the door in a hurry. With this smart gadget, they can turn their smartphones into surveillance cameras and immediately check who is at the door even when they don’t get near it. As long as it’s connected to wi-fi, users can talk to the visitor/s and know exactly who it is, adding more security. This device can also be connected to Alexa so that you can hear alerts on your Echo device. This is one gadget that is recommended if you want to turn your doorbell into something even better.
7. Freedom Talk – Newest Model DECT II
Even when we take every precaution in making sure we are safe and healthy, sadly there will be unforeseen circumstances. And this risk increases as we grow older. This device is like an automatic call system with an emergency call button that you can press to ask for help. You can pre-program up to 5 numbers into the device, such as your family members and even 911, that will be called automatically in instances that you need help. One of the advantages this gadget has in comparison with the normal phone is you don’t have to dial the number to make a call. The device itself will call the numbers you have pre-programmed so you’ll immediately be connected to someone and get the help you need.
8. Flipper Big Button Remote
This is a cute but very helpful gadget to have. When we grow older, more often than not, our eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be. Elderly people may have difficulty finding the right buttons on their remote to operate their televisions correctly. Flipper created this device exactly for that problem. With this remote, you can control multiple devices–not just your TV. It can also be used for Soundbars and satellite boxes. You can even customize your channels by programming your favorites and you can access them easier than using the normal remote control that comes with different devices. Suitable for those who are visually impaired or people with dementia.
9. AM FM Battery Operated Portable Pocket Radio
Portable radios have been used since 1960 and since then, it has been a very important part of everyday lives of people. When you want to take a break from it all and just listen to your favorite radio station and relax, then this is the best thing to have. Seniors can listen to AM or FM stations without any hassle of complicated buttons. It is also powered by batteries so even if you lose power, you can listen to the news and be in the know. This is a simple device yet it’s both entertainment and essential in emergencies.
10. Tile Mate Keys Finder and Item Locator
One of the things that can happen when we get older is the tendency to be forgetful. Luckily, there is a tool that can help you find the important things in your life easier and hassle-free. This finder works not just for keys but also for bags, phones, or anything that you use often, and that can be lost easily. With this gadget, finding the things you’ve misplaced is as easy as 1, 2, 3.
Food for thought
Senior citizens have special needs that need to be met for them to still fully enjoy life. While a lot of changes are inevitable, luckily there are a lot of gadgets created precisely for the older generation. Technological advancements have paved the way for us to further take care of and meet the demands of elderly users! MORE: Top 3 Android Smartphones For Seniors Have you or someone you know tried the gadgets I have listed here? Or are there other gadgets you can add to the list? Let us know in the comment below. We will be more than happy to read your thoughts below!
