How Technology is Empowering Seniors to Age in Place Safely and Independently

Why Technology is Essential for Seniors Aging in Place

While it can sometimes be challenging, more and more seniors are turning to technology to help them remain in their homes as they age.

“Certainly, nothing replaces the personal touch, but technology can help improve seniors’ lives and help them age a little more gracefully,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations director at the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “It can also give their families much needed peace of mind.”

Survey: Seniors Embracing Technology to Remain Independent

A new U.S. News and World Report survey, shows an overwhelming majority of seniors (93%) consider aging in place an “important goal”. To accomplish that goal, about half (49%) are adopting assistive technologies at home.

Top Reasons Seniors Use Assistive Technologies

According to the report, the top reasons why survey respondents have started using assistive or health-related technologies are:

General aging
Mobility impairment
Hearing impairment
Vision impairment
Cognitive impairment

Key Features Seniors Look for in Technology Tools

As for what matters most when using tech tools, the respondents said they must be:

Easy to use
Easy to set up
Accessible via mobile apps
Wireless
Voice activated

How Caregivers Can Assist with Senior Technology Use

“While they can be very helpful, we know some seniors are still not comfortable with new technologies. If you can’t be there to help your senior loved one navigate tech devices, our trained caregivers can help,” Goetz said. “We can help keep them connected with loved ones, shop and communicate with medical professionals – while keeping them safe from online scammers who want to take advantage of them.”

For more information about all of our services, visit hcanthrive.com or call your local HCAN-supported office.

How Technology is Empowering Seniors to Age in Place Safely and Independently