It’s time to face the facts, mobile software applications or apps aren’t just for young people anymore. In recent years, as seniors have become more tech-savvy—using smart phones, tablets, and laptops on a daily basis—several apps have been developed to make daily life easier for these older adults and their caregivers.
With each year, seniors aged 65 or older are plugging into the present. According to a survey from Pew Research Center, nearly 60 percent of seniors go online and over 75 percent own a smart phone. “Most seniors who become internet users make visiting the digital world a regular occurrence,” the research says. “Among older adults who use the internet, 71 percent go online every day or almost every day, and an additional 11 percent go online three to five times per week.”
In addition to embracing technology, nearly 90 percent of seniors want to stay in their own homes as they age, the AARP reports. With this being the case, it’s important that seniors and their caregivers know about the technology that’s available to make independent living safer.
Below are several free or inexpensive apps offered for Android and Apple that can help seniors in their day-to-day lives and offer their families and caregivers some peace of mind.
Fade (for Android users) or Fall Safety Pro (for Apple users)
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans, according to the National Council of Aging. These two apps monitor a user’s smart phone for sudden movements that may indicate a fall. In the event of a fall, emergency contacts are alerted via text and voice message and given a location.
Pillboxie
This app offers an easy way to remember to take medication. Users can schedule easy reminders and color-code different types of medications. Also, after taking medication, it is easy to log the time it was taken and its effects.
Drugs.com Medication Guide
This app is an easy way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check drug interactions, and set up personal medication records.
Tell My Geo (for Android users) or Comfort Zone (for Apple users)
These two apps allow caregivers to stay connected with loved ones wherever they are by scheduling regular location updates. Individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s can live independently, while their caregivers can constantly monitor their current location to help them stay safe.
BlueLoop
This is an app for users with diabetes and their caregivers. The app connects the user and caregiver, allowing them to share updates on food intake, insulin, and blood sugar levels. Also, caregivers can elect to receive text messages throughout the day with important updates on the user’s vital medical information.
These are just five easy-to-use apps that can help improve seniors’ lives as they continue to embrace technology. For a list of other helpful apps, visit mymedicareplanner.com and click on the tab labeled “Apps You Can Use.”
Mymedicareplanner.com is committed to educating and protecting senior citizens and helping them navigate through the “Medicare maze.” Tommy Chamouris and his staff offer guidance and help seniors find the Medicare plan that’s best for them—all at no additional cost. See our ad on page 1 of Boomer magazine.
