Resources, Gadgets and Tools for Care at Home Series

Part 4: Caregiving devices and apps are rapidly changing care at home.

Try using technology these ways:

Medical alert systems (or personal emergency response systems). A wide variety of options are available, including GPS tracking and automatic fall detection.
Monitors, alerts and alarms. Alerts include motion sensors, video camera and audio monitors, floor mat and bed pad alarms, door alarms, stove burner alerts and smart medication organizers/dispensers. Integrated systems are available that combine all of these options. A smart home and security system can be synchronized so that you can lock and unlock doors, check and change the temperature in a loved one's home, monitor who goes in and out, and even raise or lower window blinds from a distance.
Health tracking tools. Apps and devices that track blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, nutrition and other health issues are readily available, and some can send reports to your loved one's doctors.
Apps can aid communication among your caregiving team members, create medication lists, and provide caregiving tips or resources. There are also apps to set up transportation and find paid caregivers.
Connections. Technology that helps fight isolation in the home makes it easier for your loved one to visit with friends and family via video chat and smart speakers.

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