Most seniors prefer to remain independent and stay in their own homes as they age, and that wish is becoming a safer and more viable option thanks to the help of technology.

In fact, according to a 2023 US News & World Report survey, 88 percent say that high-tech tools like apps and health trackers have improved their quality of life. Such devices and software can perform all sorts of checks on your health and well-being, make your home more secure, and assist you with everyday activities.

Staying healthy with technology

First and foremost, mobile and wearable technology can give seniors a number of ways to track their health to better stay on top of and avoid issues. For instance, you can download a medical alert app to your smartphone that can sync to your smartwatch to monitor your heart rate and activity, detect and report falls, and even provide a quick and easy way to contact emergency personnel when necessary, providing extra peace of mind.

Some apps and devices also work with cameras and motion sensors for additional assurance. Apps like Medisafe Medication Management can remind you to take the correct prescriptions at the right time. And through telemedicine, you can even converse with your doctors via video chats from home, removing transportation and cost hurdles to receiving appropriate medical care.

Enhancing home security

Smart-home devices can provide extra safety for seniors living independently, especially if they have mobility issues. Smart locks and doorbell cameras may make it possible to secure your home and see who’s at the door remotely rather than having to get up to check them. Meanwhile, more advanced systems, such as those from SimpliSafe or Vivint, can put control of your home’s security at your fingertips through their apps, from which you control your home’s security system from almost anywhere.

Making daily life easier

On a more micro scale, modern technology can make it easier for seniors to safely move about and live in their homes. For example, you can operate your smart thermostat, lighting, or appliances, or even order dinner, using a voice-activated assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Nest Hub. Don’t want to spend the money on a hub assistant? Many apps offer similar capabilities—and often for free.

Staying connected

Today’s seniors can use technology to easily connect with friends and family and the outside world, helping ease some of the isolation sometimes common during one’s golden years. You can quickly erase the distance between you and your loved ones through text messages, emails, and video-calling services like Facetime. Other options you can take advantage of are building community with fellow hobbyists on Facebook or other social media groups or using these platforms to connect locally with individuals for in-person meetups. Alternatively, if you don’t wish to go out, you could enjoy a movie at home via apps like Netflix or Hulu or a new read with a free reading app like Libby.

Aging in place often requires careful planning, but with the thoughtful integration of technology, you can make the transition much smoother. If you’re thinking of going this route, consider reaching out to an aging-in-place specialist for personalized guidance and expert answers to your questions to help ensure that all your needs are met.