Technology for Seniors
Doug’s Blog has an article by Bob Moos of The Dallas Morning News on various forms of technology that can help Gen Sandwichers keep track of their parents—video cams, smart medicine bottles, and more. If you worry about how your parent is managing, especially if you live a distance from them, check out some of these gadgets. I've asked my brother who understands these things to help decide what would be best in Mom's situation. Anyone have ideas? Anyone used any of these?Labels: aging parents, gadgets, sandwich generation, technology
Monday, November 27, 2006
How about a Robot-Sitter?
Here’s an alternative to caring for Mom or Dad yourself. According to the Korea Times, hundreds of the scientists in the Asian county are developing robots that will be equipped with voice recognition software and capable of performing routine eldercare.Well, it’s efficient all right. But think about it. “Mom, I really don’t have time for you. Here’s an R2D2. He’ll make sure you take your meds, take your vitals, and sing you a lullaby. Call if you need me.” I wonder if they can engineer a personality? I wonder if they can convince an elderly person that they’re loved? Would a robot be more personal than Life Alert?
On the other hand, I constantly worry about my mom falling at home, yet, she won’t even consider assisted living or a companion. If the robot could really recognize a fall or health problem and contact emergency services, it might provide an alternative for still-independent seniors.
My mother-in-law passed away in her home. She was active, driving, traveling the world. She loved her independence and we certainly didn’t want to rob her of it. We never knew where she was, even though we begged her to let us know when she knew she’d be gone for a few days. We’d try to check in every day or so without hovering. After two or three days of not hearing, we’d call around and eventually find her visiting a friend. One day when we made the calls, none of her friends had heard from her either. They were beginning to wonder as well. We drove up to her home and found her in her bed. Probably a heart attack. Could a robot have given her safety and independence?
These are strange days we live in. Days where technology is making science fiction real. So, what do you think? Do you want a robot caring for your mom?
Labels: aging parents, robots, technology
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Gadgets can bring independence to seniors
ADT Security discusses several technological advances that can help seniors gain more independence, and give greater peace of mind to their adult children who live at a distance.I want to check out some of them, despite the hefty price tags. I worry constantly about my mom falling at home, especially now that she’s there alone. And my step-dad has macular degeneration. He has a reader in his room, but that’s limited to flat photos and reading materials. How wonderful if he could read a menu or see scenery from a car.
I guess the good news is that by the time our generation needs this level of technology, the prices should fall. Meanwhile, perhaps we can find ways to get some of it for our parents. Peace of mind for everyone.
Labels: aging parents, technology