Seniors have certainly come into their own. Did you know that more than 900 million people over the age of 60 live across the globe today? That’s more than twice as many seniors as there were in 1980. By 2050, these seniors will account for nearly 2.1 billion of the world populace. Experts have christened today’s seniors the “silver coalition.” A whopping 74% plan to work past retirement. Additionally, modern seniors are also more tech-conscious than previous senior generations. This can work in your favor when it comes to long-distance caregiving in Briarwood.
Keeping in touch with the latest tech can be both fun and convenient!
Phone Calls
Consider traditional methods of staying in touch. Phone calls may feel old fashioned, but they’re still one of the best ways to stay connected. You may not have time to speak every day, but even a once-a-week phone call can make a big difference.
Text messages
Text messages are a great way to stay in contact with anyone. All things considered, modern seniors aren’t averse to new technology. Want to know which phone to get your mom or dad? Try Lifewire’s list of top 10 phones for seniors. At the top of the list is Amazon’s Jitterbug Flip, which features bigger buttons, larger text, incoming call notifications, and a one-touch button for emergencies. If your parent has mobility or physical issues, you may like the Snapfon ezTWO, which offers a speaking keypad.
Video Chats
Many tech-savvy parents enjoy video chats. Skype and FaceTime are popular tools but they also come with intrinsic challenges. First, seniors must remember their passwords, enter them correctly, and navigate the interfaces properly. That makes video chatting more complicated than necessary. For effortless video chatting, try products like ViewClix Smart Frame, which lets you make video calls from your computer, tablet, or cell phone. So, you’ll be the one calling your mom: she won’t need to juggle long passwords or navigate complicated interfaces.
Wi-Fi Cameras
If your parent struggles with health challenges, you may want to install a Wi-Fi camera at their home. This can provide you peace of mind while ensuring that your parent enjoys a semblance of independence. Some cameras also offer two-way communication, which allows your loved ones to contact you in case of an emergency. However, if your parent thinks that Wi-Fi cameras are intrusive, you may want to consider a sensor monitoring system. Such a system allows you to attach sensors to household appliances like coffee makers. If your father fails to make coffee in the morning, an alert will be sent to your smartphone.
Life360
This app is great for helping family members and caregivers stay in the loop. It’s a private social network that allows you to communicate seamlessly with your loved ones. Life360 also helps you keep track of your parents and their activities. You’ll get alerts whenever they leave their home and return. Best of all, you get to see everyone in your social circle on the map on your cell phone screen.
Lively Mobile Plus
This amazing tool keeps you informed about your parent’s health and activities. The Lively Mobile Plus is waterproof, so your parent can even wear it in the shower or at the local pool. Best of all, it has fall detection capabilities and can sense when your parent has fallen. If your parent is unable to make a call, the Lively Mobile Plus makes the emergency call on his/her behalf.
David York Agency Supports All Caregivers
If the above tips for long-distance caregiving in Briarwood, Queens, are useful, check out David York Agency’s blog for more articles about senior care.
David York Agency understands the challenges of caregiving and is willing to provide all the support you need.
If you’d like more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 718.376.7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
David York Agency Home Healthcare is committed to providing personalized care for your loved one. If you have questions about our services, please contact us. We can help you through the difficult times and give you the break you deserve!
