In an age where technology is rapidly shaping our daily lives, it’s important to recognize that the benefits of digital innovation are not limited to a specific generation.
Seniors are often overlooked in the fast-paced world of app development and technology. However, seniors are starting to discover the advantages of convenience apps designed to enhance their lives.
These applications have the power to simplify tasks, increase access to essential services, and improve seniors’ independence. In this article, we will explore a range of convenience apps tailored to the unique needs and preferences of seniors, shedding light on the digital tools that are helping them lead more comfortable, connected, and fulfilling lives.
A number of multifunctional apps have emerged as helpful tools for seniors. These tools offer a wide array of benefits that can enhance seniors’ daily lives. They also empower seniors to maintain their independence, especially if they are aging in place. Below are some of these useful multifunctional apps for seniors.
Photo credit: GoGo Grandparent
GoGoGrandparent is an over-the-phone service that helps seniors access apps for transportation, groceries, meals, medication delivery, household chores, and more. This service screens and monitors services from Uber, Instacart, DoorDash, and other companies to ensure the senior gets their needs met. With this tool, seniors can schedule rides, get groceries and meals delivered, hire someone to do household tasks, and have their prescriptions delivered straight to their home. For a senior who has difficulty driving or moving around, these services can be invaluable.
By calling the phone number – no smartphone required – the senior can select the service they are looking for, and GoGoGrandparent will coordinate the request. An operator is available at all times to help the senior if they need it.
There are different GoGoGrandparent membership packages available depending on how often the senior wishes to use the service. The most basic plan – best for occasional usage – is $10.39 a month. There are also three other plans available with increasing levels of services.
Photo credit: Life 360
Life360 is the #1 family locator app and safety membership. In fact, 1 in 9 families use Life360 in the U.S. This app allows families to track one anothers’ locations along with location histories, arrival alerts, and emergency dispatch. It also provides driving safety services with crash detection and roadside assistance.
This type of service is helpful for all families to have peace of mind about everyone’s safety. It is especially beneficial for seniors whose families may worry about their whereabouts, safety, and location.
Photo credit: Google Home
The Google Home system and its accompanying app have proven to be immensely helpful tools for seniors by making everyday tasks more accessible and convenient. Through voice commands, seniors can effortlessly set reminders for medication, appointments, or important events, and access a wealth of information, from weather updates to news headlines. The app, which can be installed on smartphones or tablets, provides an intuitive interface for managing various aspects of their Google Home devices. Whether it’s adjusting thermostat settings, playing music, or making hands-free phone calls, Google Home offers seniors an accessible and user-friendly way to stay connected and manage their environment. This ultimately contributes to a greater sense of independence and comfort in their daily lives.
Photo credit: Amazon Alexa
The Amazon Alexa and the accompanying app are a virtual assistant technology that simplifies seniors’ daily routines and enhances their quality of life. With voice-activated commands, seniors can effortlessly control smart devices, set reminders, and access a plethora of information. From playing music to providing health tips, the Amazon Alexa helps seniors maintain their independence while enjoying the convenience of a voice-activated digital assistant.
Ride-hailing apps have emerged as lifelines for seniors who no longer drive or do not have easy access to transportation. These apps offer a user-friendly and convenient way to secure reliable rides to medical appointments, social gatherings, or everyday errands. For seniors, this newfound mobility can significantly enhance their quality of life. Having a mode of transportation helps seniors access the essential services they need, and allows them to stay connected to friends and family. Socializing is key for seniors’ mental and physical well-being, and having access to transportation helps make that possible. Below are some apps seniors can use to find reliable transportation.
Photo credit: Phone Arena
Uber is one of the most well-known ride sharing apps. It can be found in every state in the US along with 10,000 cities in 72 countries around the world. In 2021, Uber reported having approximately 100,000 drivers in the state of Florida. Seniors can enter their desired destination, and an Uber driver will come pick them up and bring them where they want to go.
One tool for seniors who need more help is Uber Assist. This rideshare program provides special assistance for people who might need extra assistance, including those who are older, less mobile, or have disabilities. Drivers for Uber Assist have been specially trained on helping these riders into vehicles and loading and unloading assistive devices. Seniors can access Uber Assist in the regular Uber app, as long as the service is available in the area. After entering the desired destination, simply select “Assist” at the bottom of the screen. This service is also available for caregivers and family members who request a ride for a senior. And, you can even schedule an Uber Assist ride in advance on the app. Uber Assist is currently available in 40 cities.
Photo credit: Lyft
Lyft is another major ridesharing app. Lyft works the same as Uber – people can input their desired destinations, and a car will pick them up and bring them where they wish to go. Lyft is available in all 50 states as well as 72 countries.
They also offer discounted rides for low-income families and seniors to access healthy food through their Lyft Up program.
Lyft has partnered with Lively to create a service just for seniors who have Jitterbug phones. Seniors can simply dial “0” on their Jitterbug phone to be connected with an operator who will schedule a ride for them. This service is available anywhere Lyft operates.
Grocery and meal delivery apps can be life changing for seniors, ensuring they have access to fresh food and prepared meals without the challenges of in-person shopping or cooking. These apps allow seniors to conveniently browse, select, and order groceries or meals from the comfort of their own homes. With doorstep delivery, seniors no longer need to worry about transportation or navigating busy stores, which can be particularly taxing for some.
In fact, seniors are using food delivery services at record-breaking rates. A recent study found that in 2020, 1 in 4 seniors ordered groceries or food delivery.
This technology not only simplifies seniors’ daily routines but also contributes to their overall well-being, offering a lifeline for those who may have limited mobility or want to avoid crowded public spaces. Food delivery tools are another way seniors can maintain their independence and quality of life. Below are some of the most prominent.
Photo credit: Instacart
Instacart is a grocery delivery service that allows you to shop from your favorite grocery stores with your computer or mobile device. Simply add items to your cart and schedule your preferred delivery time, which can be as fast an hour, or even several days in advance. Then, a shopper will gather your items and deliver them straight to your door.
Instacart even has a special Senior Support Service for customers over age 60. With this service, Instacart specialists help customers who may need additional assistance to set up their accounts and place grocery orders. The Senior Support Line is available in the U.S. and Canada at 1–844–981–3433, daily from 8 a.m.-11 p.m. ET.
Photo credit: Food Business News
With over 200 million members, Amazon Prime has become an exceedingly popular service. Amazon Prime is a great tool for seniors to get household items delivered straight to their home. They can even schedule the items for repeat delivery so they never need to worry about reordering items.
One useful feature that comes with Amazon Prime is Whole Foods delivery. For $9.95, Amazon Prime members in select regions can order Whole Foods groceries via Amazon.com or the Amazon app, and schedule them for same-day or next-day delivery to their home. Customers can also order Whole Foods groceries for curbside pickup at no additional cost. Grocery pickup is available at 500 Whole Foods stores in the US.
Photo credit: UberEats
For seniors who are already familiar with the Uber app, UberEats can be a great way to have meals delivered from their favorite restaurants. The company’s food-delivery platform is similar to its rideshare platform, which can be helpful to streamline the experience for seniors.
Photo credit: Allrecipes
DoorDash is widely considered the most popular food delivery service in the US. Available in about 7,000 cities, DoorDash delivers food from more than 300,000 restaurants. It also saves your previous orders to make it easy for seniors to reorder from their favorite spots.
Photo credit: Grubhub
Grubhub delivers to about 8,000 cities in the US. In Florida, Grubhub delivers groceries and household items from about 260 restaurants and stores. The platform works the same way as UberEats or DoorDash, but some believe GrubHub has a wider selection of restaurants to choose from.
Apps related to health and wellness are another beneficial technology for senior citizens. By enhancing health awareness and accessibility to care, health apps are valuable assets that enable seniors to maintain their health as they age. Below are some popular apps for senior health.
Photo credit: BridgingApps
MediSafe is the #1 rated pill reminder app by pharmacists and physicians. The app keeps track of your medications, reminds you when to take them, and tracks when you have or have not taken them. It also provides drug interaction warnings if they occur. And, it can alert seniors’ caregivers of missed doses.
Medication management can be a challenge for some seniors, especially those who are experiencing memory difficulties. An app like MediSafe helps seniors keep track of their pills and prevent the dangers that can come with mismanaging medication.
Photo credit: Medcity News
The GoodRX app and website provide coupons that can save customers up to 80% on their prescriptions. This service also allows customers to compare prices of prescriptions across 70,000 U.S. pharmacies. In Florida alone, there are over 1,300 pharmacies that accept GoodRx coupons and discounts. Overall, this service is a helpful resource for seniors to save money on necessary medications, which can quickly get expensive.
Whether seniors are aging at home or in a Florida assisted living community, convenience apps have proven to be invaluable tools for improving independence and quality of life. By making everyday tasks more accessible and efficient, these apps empower seniors to lead more full, connected lives, while also providing peace of mind to their loved ones.
As technology continues to advance, the positive impact of convenience apps for seniors will continue to increase, creating a more inclusive and supportive digital landscape for our senior community.
Navigating the challenges that come with aging can be difficult. If you or a loved one could use no-cost guidance on finding the best senior living and care, give Florida Senior Consulting a call at (800) 969-7176.
We help seniors find their perfect senior living communities, and we help with every step of the process along the way! Touring, packing, moving, unpacking, settling in – we help with it ALL!
Visit FloridaSeniorConsulting.com to learn more.
The boundaries of aging are constantly being rewritten. Retirement is no longer synonymous with slowing down. Instead, its a chapter that beckons us to discover the abundance of life in new and exciting ways.An active adult lifestyle embodies the spirit of curiosity, the joy of movement, and the richness of human connections. Its a lifestyle that celebrates the freedom to engage with the world, cultivate passions, and create lasting memories.Read on to learn more about the freedom of an active adult lifestyle and how Riverpointe can help you get the kind of life youve dreamt of.Your Gateway to Vibrant LivingRiverpointe is a testament to an active adult lifestyle. Offering a range of amenities that cater to diverse interests and passions, this community is a sanctuary for those seeking vitality and connection:Diverse Fitness ProgramsAt Riverpointe, the journey to active living begins with tailored fitness programs. From the tranquility of yoga to the energy of low-impact aerobics and the vitality of cardiovascular exercises, residents can move at their own pace. The community recognizes that each individuals journey is unique, and the fitness programs reflect this understanding.Group Excursions and EventsFor those who seek adventure beyond the communitys bounds, RiverPointe offers an array of group excursions. Whether its exploring museums, attending theater performances, or embarking on shopping trips, these outings infuse life with new experiences and shared moments.Cultural and Social EventsStaying within the community doesnt mean missing out on cultural and social engagement. With a Full-time Activity Director at the helm, Riverpointe orchestrates a tapestry of events with everything from concerts, dances, book reviews, speaker programs, movie nights, and more. This vibrant calendar ensures that theres never a dull moment.Onsite AmenitiesRiverpointes onsite amenities are designed to enhance every aspect of life. From garden spaces that invite reflection to an in-house foot clinic that prioritizes well-being, every amenity is a testament to the communitys commitment to holistic living.Apartment ComfortsThe embrace of an active adult lifestyle extends to the very living spaces at Riverpointe. Innovative floor plans offer breathtaking views of the Front Range, immersing residents in the beauty of their surroundings. Meals are more than sustenance; theyre an opportunity to connect over casual lunches or elegant dinners.The apartments at Riverpointe are designed for comfort and convenience. From weekly light housekeeping to basic cable TV, individually controlled heating and air conditioning, and complimentary laundry facilities, every amenity is aimed at enriching the living experience.Embrace Freedom, Embrace LifeThe freedom of an active adult lifestyle isnt merely about the absence of limitations; its about the presence of opportunities that empower us to live life to the fullest. RiverPointe encapsulates this essence, providing a canvas upon which residents can paint their stories of vitality and connection. Its a community that encourages exploration, nurtures connections, and celebrates the beauty of every moment.With Riverpointes offerings, an active adult lifestyle becomes a journey that unfolds with every step. Find joy in a morning yoga session, the thrill of a museum excursion, the laughter shared during a dance night, and the comfort of a thoughtfully designed living space. Find the true embodiment of freedom: the freedom to choose, to connect, to move, to be, and to live.If youre ready to embark on a journey of active living and embrace the freedom to thrive, Riverpointe welcomes you to a community where every day is a canvas for new experiences and cherished memories. Contact us today to get started!
Ensuring the safety of seniors at home is paramount for their well-being and independence. Creating a secure living environment involves a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of their daily life. Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the home, identifying potential hazards such as loose rugs, uneven flooring, or cluttered pathways. Installing handrails in key areas, such as staircases and bathrooms, can provide valuable support and prevent accidents. Adequate lighting throughout the house is crucial; consider motion-activated lights to illuminate pathways and rooms, reducing the risk of falls. Additionally, make necessary modifications in the kitchen, such as lowering countertop heights for easier access and installing nonslip flooring to enhance traction. Regular communication with seniors about their comfort and safety concerns is essential, fostering a collaborative effort in maintaining a secure home environment.Incorporating technology into the home can also significantly contribute to senior safety. Smart home devices, such as medical alert systems or sensors that detect unusual movements, can provide an added layer of security. Consider implementing a video monitoring system to keep an eye on key areas of the home, providing both caregivers and seniors with peace of mind. By addressing these physical and technological aspects, we can create an environment that not only promotes the independence of seniors but also assures their safety, allowing them to age in place with confidence and dignity.
Did you know that Pennsylvania has the fifth largest older adult population in the nation with 3.4 million individuals?1 As the population continues to age, more people are weighing their options when it comes to downsizing, moving into a senior living community, or choosing to age in the comfort of their homes. According to a 2021 Home and Community Preferences survey by AARP of 2,826 U.S. adults, about 75% of people over the age of 50 expressed that they would like to remain in their current houses and communitiesmeaning aging in place is becoming a more prevalent life choice among older adults.2What to Know About Aging in PlaceIf youre leaning toward spending your years in the place where you feel the most content and safe, then you need to be willing to make some modifications to your home. As you age, your needs change, which means certain features in your home may need to be adjusted. Wider doorways and walkways; accessible bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms; ramps and lifts; non-slip floors; and stability aids like grab bars and handrails are some of the most common enhancements that come to mind, but assistive technology can play an important role in aging in place too.Many people choose to age in place because they want to maintain their independence, and assistive technology helps make that possible. From smart home devices that allow you to control the temperature or lights with voice commands to amplified phones and doorbells, there are plenty of high-tech tools that can help you navigate your day-to-day with ease. If youre a senior with hearing loss, Captioned Telephone Relay Service is a free service that allows you to read captions of whats said to you during phone conversations using a uniquely designed CapTel phone.CapTel Makes Phone Conversations Clearer Using CapTel, you can confidently and securely age in place knowing that you can effectively communicate over the phone. Whether youre calling loved ones to catch up, chatting with your doctor, or contacting first responders in an emergency, CapTel is a dependable communication solution for older adults who have hearing loss.Best of all, the CapTel captioning service is free and available in English and Spanish, with captions appearing on the bright, built-in display screen of the CapTel phone just moments after the other caller has spoken. CapTel phones can be purchased directly for $75 through a third-party vendor, or qualified Pennsylvania residents can apply for a CapTel device through the states Telecommunications Device Distribution Program (TDDP)which provides specialized equipment to individuals who find it difficult to use a standard phone. Age in Place Confidently with CapTelTo learn more about CapTel, including how to purchase or apply for an assistive communication device, visit pactrs.com today!Sources:1Master Plan for Older Adults, Pennsylvania Department of Aging 22021 Home and Community Preferences Survey: A National Survey of Adults Age 18-Plus | Joannne Binette & Fanni Farago, AARP Research CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc.