Why Many Alaskan Seniors Aren’t Embracing the Benefits of Senior Care Technology

No matter where they live, today’s older adults are overrun with an explosion of high tech products focused on bettering their independence and safety and providing life enhancement. At the touch of a few buttons, they can instantly visit “in person” with family and other loved ones through Skype, wear a gadget that contacts emergency personnel when needed, even be protected from getting lost through specialized sensors attached to shoes or clothing.

The issue becomes how to inspire older adults (and those who provide senior care for them) to shift from a low-tech mindset to embracing all that’s available to them. A recent Caring.com survey showed that as few as 15% of families caring for senior loved ones are actually utilizing the senior care services that technology has to offer.

The common hurdles:

• Stigma. Many people view the use of certain technology, such as personal medical alert devices, as a sign of lost independence.
• Lack of available help. Troubleshooting problems with senior care technology causes many older adults and their caregivers to give up on trying to get the technology to work.
• Time. Finding time and energy to try something new is especially challenging for busy family members.

If you're interested in trying to incorporate a little technology into senior care for a loved one but are facing these trials or others, call on Midnight Sun Home Care for help. Our patient and sensitive Alaska caregivers can help overcome the hurdles of technology by:

• Making recommendations for senior care technology that suits a loved one's needs and personality
• Setting up and teaching you how to use the technology

Whether it is training someone how to use a personal medical alert system or showing how to use apps on a tablet device, we can help seniors stay connected to family and friends and enjoy life more fully. For more information on our Alaska senior care services, click here; or contact us today!