How Technology is Helping Families Stay Connected to Elderly Parents

Due to distance and a full life, families may find themselves unable to be close to their ageing parents. Luckily, technology is filling that gap in ways that were unimaginable 10 years ago. Today, a variety of communication methods and sources, such as video calling, are able to help families stay in touch with their elderly family members' care and well-being. The changes in technology that are changing the support structure in which families age with their parents are the theme of this discussion at ElderWell.

Why Staying Connected Matters

Being regularly connected to family has a direct effect on parents' mental and physical health and is emotionally comforting. Being isolated has been associated with increased depression, cognitive decline and chronic illness, so regular communication and monitoring are important.

This equips teachers with the know-how and resources required to foster family connections through technology.

Technology Tools Strengthening Family Connections

• Video Calling Platforms: Communication platforms that make it easy to video call; seeing elderly parents gives them a feeling of being seen and supported at a distance.
• Medical Alert Systems: Wearable alarms that can recognise falls or emergencies and notify someone that it is happening in the moment
• Medication Reminder Apps: Ensure your elderly parents are on task when it comes to taking their medication and minimise health risks due to missed medications using these types of apps.
• Smart Home Devices: Voice-activated devices make reminders, calls for help or any task you'd like to complete much easier to complete, aiding in-home care for elderly parents.
• AI in Health Monitoring: Wearables and sensors can use the power of AI to monitor health parameters, detect anomalies and send alerts to caregivers before it's too late.

How AI Is Changing the Caregiving Landscape

Nowadays, AI can be used to forecast health problems, track habits of daily living and even identify early signs of brain degeneration. This positive approach helps families/carers act more quickly and provide an extra layer of support when caregivers of older relatives are not always able to be there in person.

Technology's Role in Finding the Right Care

“Technology has made it much easier for family members when looking for a caregiver for an older loved one. Families can easily view the credentials, read positive reviews and filter caregivers by their needs on online platforms for providing care, which helps to save time and provide clarity”.

Balancing Technology with Human Connection

“With today's technology, this can be a huge help, but not a substitute for face-to-face meetings and talking. It's not a substitute for real connection; it's to enhance or strengthen”.

Embracing Technology for Better Elderly Care

As a family caregiver faces all of the joys and difficulties of caring for an older relative from afar (or near), technology tools can provide practical tips for ageing while staying independent, safe and taking care of the emotional and time management aspects of family caregiving.

Stay connected, stay involved-explore how technology can support your family's caregiving journey with ElderWell.