Empowering Independence: How Technology Supports Aging in Place

Author

Senior Tech Support

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Senior Tech Support

Posted on

Aug 15, 2024

Book/Edition

Illinois - Chicago North/West Suburbs & DuPage County

share-this
Share This

Recently, I tuned in to an NPR program that was discussing the concept of 'aging in place,' inspired by an insightful article in the Sun Times. As the host engaged in a conversation with her two guests, I was intrigued as they explored various aspects of traditional aging in place concepts, from the installation of safety equipment like shower grab bars to employing plug-in LED lights in hallways and on stairways to prevent falls. They emphasized the importance of having a communication plan for emergencies, ensuring that those choosing to age in their homes have a way to reach out to loved ones or first responders if the need arises.

 

The discussion also touched on how to determine the correct timing for seeking additional assistance from in-home care companies, which offer services ranging from personal care and bathing to meal preparation, laundry, grocery shopping, and light housekeeping. My sister owns one of these types of companies, Wisdom Eldercare, which serves clients throughout the greater Chicagoland area, so I have direct experience with the remarkable level of care and services she and her caregivers provide to their clients. Undoubtedly, these types of services play a crucial role in supporting individuals who wish to maintain their independence at home.

 

While the conversation covered these essential considerations, it surprised me that neither the host nor the guests mentioned the significance of embracing and understanding technology to assist in the aging-in-place journey even once. Although I attempted to bring this perspective into the conversation through a call-in, I unfortunately wasn't selected to participate in the conversation. Since I couldn’t bring the technology component of aging in place to that conversation, I'd like to share some of my thoughts and insights on leveraging technology for successful aging in place here.

 

In recent years, the term 'Smart device' has become increasingly prevalent, reflecting a lucrative market where companies aim to capitalize on producing 'smart' products. Everywhere you turn, be it on TV, radio, or the internet, you encounter references to Smart Speakers, Smart Assistants, Smart TVs, Smart Watches, Smart Lights, Smart Doorbells, Smartphones, and more. At its core, a 'Smart' device is simply one that can connect to the internet. The importance lies in their capacity to assist, and I want to highlight a few ways in which they can enhance the aging-in-place experience.

 

Smart Speakers are a category of smart devices that I find to be among the easiest to incorporate into your home, offering a wide range of features that prove immensely beneficial for aging in place. Companies like Apple, Amazon, and Google have introduced Smart Speakers such as Apple HomePod, Amazon Echo, and Google Nest devices, each equipped with their own Digital Assistants – Siri and Alexa for example. These devices can answer queries, from simple ones like checking the weather to assisting with more complex tasks like controlling lights, locking, or unlocking doors, accessing security cameras, and even instructing a robot vacuum to clean the kitchen.

 

For Smart Assistants, via Smart Speakers, to interact effectively, the other connected devices with which they are communicating and controlling must also be 'Smart.' Incorporating Smart LED lights, door locks, cameras, and even robot vacuums into your home offers a seamless integration of additional Smart Devices. Picture someone ringing your doorbell, and with a simple voice command through a Smart Speaker, you can engage in a conversation with them, see the visitor, and even unlock the door—all made possible through the wonders of Smart Devices. Or imagine a scenario where your dog has knocked over their bowl of kibble and hundreds of tiny pieces of dog food are scattered all over the kitchen floor. With one simple voice command to your Smart Speaker, you can instruct your robot vacuum to clean it up eliminating the need to get out the broom and dustpan.

 

As we consider the various elements contributing to successful aging in place, let's not overlook the tremendous potential of technology. Integrating Smart Devices into your home can empower you, providing a level of convenience, safety, and independence that complements the more traditional measures previously discussed. Embracing technology ensures that you not only adapt to the changing times but also thrive in them, creating a blend of modern innovation alongside the desire for a comfortable and secure home environment.

 

And, as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology, let us not forget the profound impact it can have on our lives—ushering in a new era where the golden years are not just lived but lived exceptionally well, thanks to the synergy of thoughtful planning, caregiving, and cutting-edge innovation.

Other Articles You May Like

The Gift of Organization: Simplifying the Holidays for Seniors and Their Families

The holiday season can be both a joyful and overwhelming time, especially for seniors. As loved ones come together to celebrate, the pressure to maintain a tidy and organized home can add stress to what should be a time of joy. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that a clutter-free environment can foster peace and emotional well-being during the holidays. In this blog, well explore how organization can be a thoughtful gift, not just for seniors, but for their families too. Understanding the Emotional Toll of ClutterFor many seniors, the accumulation of belongings can lead to feelings of despair and overwhelm. As we age, it becomes harder to manage clutter, both physically and emotionally. It can be a source of anxiety, especially when the holidays come around, inviting family gatherings and festive celebrations. Tip: Look Beyond the StuffUnderstanding the emotional connection people have with their belongings is essential. Each item may carry memories or sentimental value, making the decluttering process challenging. Approach the conversation with love and empathy, reminding them that a simplified space can lead to greater peace of mind. Decluttering with PurposeOne of the best gifts you can give a senior this holiday season is a tidied and organized home. Not only will this create a welcoming environment for family visits, but it can also lighten the emotional load that clutter brings. Heres a step-by-step guide to facilitate the decluttering process:Step 1: Set the MoodCreating a pleasant atmosphere can make the decluttering process more enjoyable. Play soft music and have refreshments on hand to create a comfortable and relaxed setting. Encourage the person youre helping to share stories about their belongings, making the process feel less like a chore.Step 2: Start SmallTackling an entire home at once can be overwhelming. Begin with small areas, like a closet or a single room, to make progress feel achievable. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes, allowing for focused work without fatigue. Celebrate small wins together to cultivate a sense of achievement.Step 3: Sorting with LoveAs items are removed from their designated spaces, sort them into four categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Toss. Encourage seniors to keep items that spark joy while helping them understand that saying goodbye to certain belongings doesnt mean losing their memories. Keep: items they love and use regularly.Donate: usable items that could benefit others.Sell: items of value that may also be a source of income.Toss: broken or unusable items that no one will benefit from.Step 4: Create Functional SpacesOnce decluttering is complete, the next step is organizing the remaining items in a way that makes them easily accessible and functional. Use clear bins, labels, and designated spots for everything to maintain order. For example, frequently used items should be within reach, while seasonal items can reside in less accessible areas. Embracing the Spirit of GivingThe holidays are fundamentally about connection and support. By helping a senior declutter, you not only enhance their living environment but also reinforce familial bonds. Its about creating space for memories, laughter, and love during gatherings.Tip: Coordinate with Family MembersEncourage family members to pitch in and share the workload. This shared experience can facilitate deeper connections, ease the emotional strain, and promote teamwork. The act of organizing together reinforces unity, transforms the task into a celebration, and allows everyone to reminisce about the memories tied to certain items.The gift of organization can transform not only a home but the holiday experience itself. A peaceful, organized space fosters emotional well-being and allows seniors and their families to focus on what truly matters: togetherness and joy. Remember, the journey of decluttering is not just about discarding items; its about making room for love, laughter, and cherished memories. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we are here to support you in simplifying the holiday season for seniors and their families. Together, lets create a joyful and stress-free home for the holidays.

Why Is Staying Hydrated So Difficult for Seniors?

Hot summer days are a good time for everyone to think about staying hydrated. For older adults the topic of hydration is a year-round discussion that never goes away. Its a serious issue for most seniors but doesnt get resolved because it needs to be addressed every day and cant be solved with a pill.Seniors have a very high risk for dehydration, which is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization after the age of 65. They have a greater risk of dehydration for many reasons, including the fact that as we age, our kidneys become less efficient at conserving fluids, our sense of thirst weakens, and we are less able to adjust to changes in temperature. Some medications like diuretics, sedatives, and laxatives can also cause increased fluid loss.Dehydration can cause temporary symptoms that mimic symptoms of Alzheimers. If dementia-like symptoms seem to appear suddenly, it could be dehydration which is easily curable.Symptoms of dehydration range from minor to severe and include persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, forgetfulness, confusion, lethargy, increased heart rate, sunken eyes, dry mouth, dark colored urine.  Urine should be clear to pale yellow. I tell my clients that if their urine is darker than pale yellow, they should head straight to the kitchen from the bathroom and drink a full glass of water.  Keeping a glass of water beside you all day to sip on rarely results in someone drinking enough fluids.  Its more effective to drink the entire glass, even if its a small glass.  Seniors cant rely on their sense of thirst to tell them when to drink water.  Scheduling a glass at each meal and/or after a bathroom visit, making sure to drink the full glass, is the best way to make sure youve gotten your full daily amount.If you have any questions, please call us at 303-444-4040. 

The Spirit of Giving: How A Call to Order Professional Organizers Brings Joy to Seniors This Christmas

The holiday season is a time of warmth, joy, and meaningful connections, especially for seniors who cherish memories and moments spent with loved ones. Unfortunately, the very activities that should bring joylike decorating, gathering, and gift-givingcan become overwhelming when clutter and disorganization take center stage. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe that a clutter-free environment can enhance the holiday spirit and create a serene atmosphere for seniors. This article explores how we can make a difference by helping seniors enjoy a seamless and joyful Christmas experience.The Importance of Decluttering for SeniorsAs the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to holiday traditions with friends and family. However, for seniors, it can be challenging to navigate an environment crowded with memories, decorations, and daily items they may no longer need. Decluttering is essential, not just for creating space but for fostering a peaceful and joyful holiday atmosphere. When we help seniors declutter, we guide them through the emotional weight attached to their belongings. Each item tells a story, from cherished holiday decorations passed down through generations to gifts that were once adored but are now forgotten. Our empathetic approach focuses on helping them make intentional decisions about what to keep and what to let go. Tips for a Meaningful Decluttering ExperienceStart Small: Begin with one room or area at a time. Focus on the most cluttered areas that require immediate attention, such as living rooms or kitchens. This methodical approach prevents feelings of being overwhelmed during the decluttering journey.Create Keepsake Containers: Encourage seniors to set aside a few cherished items in special containers. This way, they can keep meaningful items without cluttering their spaces. Make sure to label each container for easy identification.Involve Family Members: Invite family members to participate in the decluttering process. This not only reduces the emotional burden but also fosters connection. Sharing stories behind treasured items can be a heartwarming experience.Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive: As you sort through decorations, encourage seniors to curate a selection of their favorite holiday pieces. Incorporate these items into their holiday traditions to evoke nostalgia and joy without overwhelming their space.By employing these strategies, we provide seniors with the clarity and comfort they need to enjoy a peaceful holiday season.Creating a Joyful Holiday EnvironmentOnce decluttering is underway, its time to focus on decorating and creating a joyful environment. The key is to keep things simple yet festive. At A Call to Order, we specialize in transforming spaces, making them inviting for family gatherings and celebrations.Decorating Tips for a Senior-Friendly HolidayChoose a Theme: Help seniors choose a simple theme that resonates with themwhether it's traditional, modern, or whimsical. A cohesive theme can make decorating less overwhelming and more enjoyable.Opt for Lightweight Decorations: Select decorations that are easy to handle and arrange. Avoid heavy ornaments and decor that can pose hazards. Energizing the space with strings of light or simple garlands can be an effective way to enhance the festive atmosphere without overwhelming them.Incorporate Personal Touches: Encourage seniors to include personal items in their decorations. Family photos, handmade ornaments, or crafts from grandchildren can create a warm and inviting space that sparks joy and connection.Maintain Accessibility: Ensure that decorations are arranged at a height that is easy to see and reach. Seniors should feel included in the decorating process, so setup should enable their participation.Plan Gatherings: As the holidays approach, consider scheduling low-key gatherings. A cozy hot cocoa night or a holiday movie marathon with close family can create cherished memories while allowing seniors to enjoy the holiday spirit in a relaxed environment.At A Call to Order, we aim to connect with our clients deeply and meaningfully, ensuring that the spirit of giving extends beyond the holiday season. Helping seniors prepare their homes for Christmas gives them the gift of joy, connection, and solace. Wrapping Up This Christmas, let's remember that the spirit of giving can be manifested through meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. As professional organizers, our mission at A Call to Order is to make the holidays brighter and more memorable for seniors by creating spaces that radiate joy, peace, and love. Connecting emotionally with our clients leads to not only a decluttered home but also a heartwarming holiday season filled with shared moments and cherished memories. This is what we celebrate while bringing joy to seniorsbecause every moment spent in a clutter-free space is a moment of peace during the festive whirlwind of the holidays. 

Local Services By This Author

Senior Tech Support

Computer & Internet Services 1811 Stoddard Avenue, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187

Senior Tech Support, based in Wheaton, Illinois, provides specialized in-person and phone-based technology support, training, and education specifically for older adults across the Chicagoland area. The services encompass resolving issues with Apple/Microsoft devices, iOS/Android systems, smart devices, printers, Wi-Fi networks and so much more. Senior Tech Support emphasizes teaching and empowering clients how to use their devices to enrich their lives, focusing on patience and personalized support. They offer straightforward pricing for in-person assistance at $125 per hour and phone assistance at $20 per 15 minutes. Founder Tony LaPalio and his team are committed to fostering long-term relationships with clients, tailoring solutions to individual needs.