by Kelli Fontaine, Assistive Technology Manager, Center for Independent Living of Broward & Gulf Coast
Assistive technology can have a major impact on caregiving; making tasks easier and improving the quality of life for both caregivers and their loved ones. Here are three ways that assistive technology can improve caregiving.
- Reduce caregiver workload. Caregivers can use assistive technology to help them manage their workload more efficiently. For example, smart home technology can automate tasks like turning on and off lights, adjusting the thermostat, and even preparing meals, allowing caregivers to focus on other essential tasks.
- Enhance communication. Assistive technology apps can help caregivers communicate more effectively with their loved ones. For instance, text to speech apps such as Speech Assistant, can help individuals with no speech, or limited speech to communicate with their caregivers. Speech to text apps, such as Live Transcribe can also help people who have hearing impairments understand their caregivers better.
- Monitor health. Assistive technology can also help caregivers monitor the health of their loved ones. Wearable devices that track heart rate, blood pressure and other vital signs can provide real-time data to caregivers, alerting them to potential health issues before they become serious. This technology can also help caregivers keep track of medication schedules and doctor appointments, ensuring that their loved ones receive the care they need on time.
Overall, being aware of assistive technology and how it can be used, can help make caregiving easier, while promoting independence for care recipients.
Learn more about technology for caregiving on Friday, April 21 at 12 PM ET in a no-cost webinar from the Alzheimer’s Association Florida chapters. Register for Technology and Caregiving online or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
