According to a research, virtually every country around the world is experiencing growth in the number of old people in their population. Population ageing will become one of the most significant social transformations of the 21st century.
According to data from World Population Prospects: The 2017 revision, the number of older persons, aged 60 years or more is expected to be more than double by 2050 and triple by 2100.
For centuries, seniors have been taken care of by people with specialized designations: a doctor(who diagnoses and maintains medication needs) and caregiver (a family member or group of nurses who looks after daily needs)
But, apart from this, they also suffer from issues which can only be solved by someone being with them 24/7. Some of these problems of the elderly include,
- Lack of Mobility
- Memory Loss (due to aging or diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s)
- Loss in vision or hearing
- Loneliness
A few decades ago, it was difficult for elderly to take care of themselves without the help of others, but thanks to the advancements in technology, elderly life is becoming more and more independent.
Here are some factors which shows technology can help elderly to live a secure and comfortable life.
1. GPS(Global Positioning System) Services
GPS has been there for decades, but in the last few years, its functionality has been greatly improved, especially location accuracy and the details which satellite systems are able to show.
Now, let us know how it can help elderly. With the help of GPS trackers or devices, it is easy for their caregivers to find senior people in case they’re lost or during an emergency. Due to Aging or conditions like Alzheimer’s, it is possible that seniors can forget their addresses and in such cases it is difficult for them to come back home, even if they are familiar with address and surroundings. In such scenarios, devices like GPS tracker can be a life saver.
2. Cameras
Elderly abuse is one of the serious issues especially today. According to the National Council of Aging Research, 1 out of 10 American seniors have been experiencing some kind of abuse.
This is where smart cameras shine. Devices like small cameras can be used to keep an eye on your senior parents and prevent any physical abuse, theft, or burglary.
3. Virtual/Robot Assistants
Devices like social robots for seniors helps them reminding of their medical needs for the day without a person being present. Also, it helps in browsing digital content, listening to their favorite music and more .
We’re not done yet, some social robot are integrated in smartphones, which come with automated voices. It works as a constant companion for seniors. This provides a sense of belongingness which is important for seniors as they grow older, especially when they are alone.
4. Emergency Response Services(ERSs)
Due to lack of mobility, sight and hearing, it can put seniors in serious danger when they are alone. ERSs have advanced features which notifies emergency responders in case of any unpredictable situations.
The ERS is also integrated in several unique gadgets for helping seniors. Safety Belts have been developed which deploys airbags around the hips when it notices an older adult falling. The belt then provides a signal to a device which is connected to it and gives an emergency response about the location in a flash.
Technology helps in several ways to elderly. Using technology for their security and comfort is good, but it is even more important to take some time in your busy schedule and spending it with seniors in your home, After all, old age is nothing but a second childhood. They need all the love and attention for a happy and secure life.
Thank You! I hope this information helps.
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