Tech Support
As the UK’s population lives longer, technology is playing a vital role in helping keep older people independent .
Age UK Mobility says the latest advancements mean there is an increasingly wide variety of equipment that can aid our ageing loved ones.
In particular, the organisation says there are important new mobile devices and wearable gadgets that can transform the lives of carers and their loved ones.
You can find a more comprehensive breakdown of what's available on the Age UK Mobility website, but here are some of the key pieces of technology it says you should consider if you are looking after an ageing adult.
01
Stairlifts
Although stairlifts are believed to date back to the 1920s, there are now modern stairlifts that have been unveiled in recent years that can help older people live more independently and can aid carers.
There are curved, straight and even outdoor stairlifts so elderly adults can easily navigate stairs inside and outside of their homes. It also means older people are not confined to downstairs if they are owners of a house and with features such as perched seats and wireless remote controls they have become an important aid for many.
02
Voice recognition software
Products that are powered by voice recognition have changed the way we live, and this is the case for older people. Now vocalized commands allow you to have hands-free control over TVs, consumer electronics and even garage doors and lighting around the home. A useful tool that can limit movement, and a potentially life-saving tool for those who are unable to reach a phone in a time of need.
03
Robots
While robots used to be featured in futuristic TV shows, they are now a very real thing and they could be looking after people all across the UK in the future.
Robots have already been created to help look after the elderly and dementia sufferers. These robots have the ability to talk about the weather, help find lost items and reminisce about the past. Others can play TV programmes and films.
Not all robots are big and they come in all shapes and sizes. Today you can buy Hasbro cats and dogs that are small and fluffy robot pets that allow older people to interact with them. Great for companionship and with no vet bills needed.
04
Virtual services
Another potentially life-changing technology for older adults and something that has been vital for many during the COVID-19 pandemic has been virtual services.
Now you can do your food shopping online, you can see doctors virtually and there are now app-based car services such as Uber who have partnered with care services in a bid to find effective ways to support older adults.
People who need to make regular trips to the pharmacy for prescriptions can even order them online and get them delivered to their house.
05
Key Finder
There is now technology that allows you to find misplaced items such as keys, TV remotes and more.
06
Personal Alarms
A concern for family members and friends of older people living on their own is them falling over. Fortunately, there are personal alarms where users can press a button and it will get hold of the emergency services or a close contact to tell them they need help.
07
GPS Smart Sole
This technology allows older adults to wear a shoe sole that keeps family and loved ones up to date as to their whereabouts via smartphones, tablets or web browser.
You can get more information from Age UK Mobility: