Technology can transform our lives, allowing us to stay in contact with loved ones and even creating more safety as we age. Staying connected is essential for overall well-being and can enhance health and happiness, especially in later years.
From communication tools to health-monitoring devices, there are many ways we can stay in touch and stay safe. With so many options available, finding the perfect fit for your needs is within reach. Explore some of the best communication devices and apps for older adults.
The Importance of Staying Connected
Whether we're staying connected to discuss the most recent episode of our favorite TV show or to ask for help in an emergency, apps and devices are powerful tools for staying connected, happy and safe.
The Benefits of Social Connection
Humans are social by nature, and our relationships are important to our health and survival. In the modern world, many of our loved ones lead busy lives or live far away, and technology allows us to stay in touch despite physical distance. There are many benefits of social connection, including:
- Staying connected makes us feel like we belong and are loved, cared for, and valued.
- Positive social connections are key to our mental and physical health.
- Being connected helps protect us from serious illnesses and diseases.
- People with strong social ties tend to live longer and healthier lives.
How Technology Can Enhance Our Safety and Quality of Life
While having a cellphone nearby in an emergency can be helpful, having a personal emergency response system (PERS) can give you even more peace of mind. Here are some of the benefits of investing in a medical alert device:
- Help you stay independent
- Support if you’ve experienced a fall
- Protection if you have a health condition
- Reassurance if you don't want to worry your family
- Security when you live alone
Leading Communication Apps for Older Adults
If you already have a cellphone or tablet, you'll have access to countless apps. The following apps are simple to use and effective for older adults to communicate with others:
WhatsApp is a popular choice for its low-cost user-friendliness. Its easy video calling function allows you to see your loved ones' faces, which can make connecting digitally feel more like the real thing.
Here are some of WhatsApp's main functions:
- Messaging: You can send messages on WhatsApp as if you were texting.
- Voice notes: Are you tired of typing? Voice notes let you send quick audio messages, which is a lifesaver if your eyesight isn't what it used to be or your hands get tired easily. Plus, hearing a loved one's voice can brighten most people's days.
- Voice calls: If you have friends overseas, WhatsApp's free voice calls over Wi-Fi mean you can chat for hours without worrying about expensive international charges.
- Video calls: WhatsApp makes video calling for older adults especially easy because it allows calls to be made from smartphones anywhere with a decent signal or access to Wi-Fi. Whether you're speaking with a friend overseas or chatting with grandkids, WhatsApp's video calls are ideal for bringing you and your loved ones closer together.
- Photo, video, and file transfers: Another great feature of WhatsApp is sending photos, videos, and files to share special moments with family and friends.
Speechify
Speechify was first invented to help people with dyslexia, though it now serves people of all ages worldwide for different purposes. This accessible app allows you to upload text, whether it's emails. social media posts or PDFs, and have it read back to you. This function is particularly helpful for older adults who find it challenging to read text on a screen.
Some notable features of the Speechify app include:
- Choose your narrator: Speechify allows you to choose a voice that you enjoy listening to and find easy to understand.
- Adjust the speed: If you've uploaded a long email depicting an exciting trip or family updates from an overseas family member, you can choose to slow down the narration so you don't miss a single detail.
- Follow along with highlighted text: This app also highlights the text as it reads, so you can follow along if you choose.
FaceTime
Apple products like iPhones and iPads include the FaceTime app for older adults to connect with family members and friends who also use Apple products. The FaceTime app should already be downloaded on your device. It is very easy to use and is a great way to bring your loved ones into the room with you.
To make a FaceTime call:
- Open the FaceTime app
- Select a recent contact or tap “New FaceTime”
- Enter the recipient's name, or add multiple names for a group call
- Tap the green FaceTime button
Communication Devices for Older Adults
While smartphones are helpful, some people enjoy the features of dedicated communication devices, such as the ability to use voice commands, easy access to entertainment, and staying in contact in emergencies.
JubileeTV
Medical Guardian has partnered with JubileeTV to bring you a unique tool that works with your TV, integrating completely for ease and convenience. The device can help your loved ones worry less about you and keep your family close.
Here are some of JubileeTV's supportive features:
- Simplified TV interface: This device provides a simpler way to navigate your favorite channels and streaming services.
- Convenient remote TV control: JubileeTV allows family members to help you with your TV settings right from their phones.
- Automatic video calls: This device can connect you face-to-face with loved ones with just a tap — perfect for staying in touch with family and friends.
- Helpful on-screen reminders: You can set reminders for appointments and medications that appear right on your TV screen.
- Supportive check-ins: JubileeTV can give your family and loved ones peace of mind by enabling easy, non-intrusive check-ins.
If you want to try Jubilee TV or set it up for a loved one, you can get $30 off JubileeTV with code GUARDIAN30.
Amazon Echo Show
Amazon Echo Show's voice-controlled interface makes video calls incredibly easy. You simply ask Alexa to call someone, and the device initiates the call.
Here are some more of the features this device offers:
- Entertainment: Amazon Echo Show lets you use simple voice commands to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, recipes, radio stations, and audiobooks.
- Information: You can ask Alexa to help you stay up to date with the latest news, weather alerts, and podcasts.
- Smart home control: You can even use this device in connection with compatible smart home devices to monitor security cameras, adjust lights, and control the thermostat.
GrandPad
GrandPad was created for older adults, offering a simplified tablet experience that's easy to use and enjoyable.
The many functions of a GrandPad include:
- Make video calls
- Send and receive voice memos
- View family photos and videos
- Play games
- Check the weather and news
- Listen to music
- Access emails
Medical Guardian
Medical Guardian provides specialized communications devices designed to enhance safety and promote independence for older adults. You can choose from a diverse range of products that offer two-way communication both inside and outside the home, so you're connected to help if you need it.
This innovative device has advanced fall detection technology that will activate in the case of a sudden drop, which usually signifies a fall. Within seconds, highly trained life safety consultants will use your device's two-way speaker to evaluate your situation and determine how best to help you.
One of the many reasons to use a medical alert device is so you can stay active and feel empowered, while still being safety conscious and enjoying peace of mind. All devices feature a simple button that connects you to highly trained operators within seconds.
Explore Medical Guardian's Systems Today
Staying connected and safe as we age can be easier with the right apps and devices. From simple chat apps to dedicated communication devices, there are many ways to maintain our connections with loved ones and enjoy greater peace of mind.
Medical Guardian's on-the-go and in-home medical alert systems are designed to provide you with the security and confidence you need to enjoy your independence to the fullest. Medical Guardian is your partner in the art of aging well.
For more information on our devices, reach out to Medical Guardian today or explore our products to find the perfect system for you or a loved one.
