Devices for the elderly go far beyond stairlifts and portable alarms; From smart technology to useful everyday tools, there are some incredibly useful gadgets for seniors.
The best devices for seniors can:
- improve security
- Enabling connections to avoid isolation
- health monitoring
- Remind seniors to take medication
- Help seniors stay independent longer
6 of the best smart devices for seniors
From smartwatches to virtual home assistants, here are some of the best devices for seniors available right now:
1. Virtual assistants for the home
virtual home assistants likeAmazon Alexamigoogle assistant, it can be a brilliant addition to your home. You'll need a smart speaker like the Amazon Echo or Google Home to get started, and you'll need to make sure the voice setting is turned on. Smart speakers are usually small and sleek, so they don't look too intrusive in your home.
If you have other smart technologies in your home, such as smart light bulbs and plugs, you can connect your smart speaker to them. This allows you to turn lights on or off or even flip switches without having to get up, making it an ideal device if you have limited mobility or don't want to bend down to turn on switches too often. If you are not sure how to sync all the technology, you can find many guides online or ask a loved one for help.
Once you are confident in using your virtual home assistant, you can use it to:
- make medical appointments
- define alarms
- Add to your shopping list
- game music
- set reminders
2. Smart watches

Smartwatches aren't just for busy business people or fitness fanatics; Many smartwatches come with useful health monitoring features that make them a brilliant device for seniors. Because they are worn like a traditional watch, they are not intrusive or intrusive.
Some of the recommended smartwatches for seniors include theFitBit Glow, which is waterproof and has a 5-day battery life, a built-in GPS tracker, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and is waterproof.
ogalaxy 3 clockIt's another good option for seniors, as it has built-in fall detection and can also monitor your heart rate, sleep quality, stress levels, and the number of steps you take in a day.
In fact, a study carried out by the North American organizationAARPfound in 2015 that 45% of people aged 50 and over reported increased motivation to make healthier lifestyle choices after spending just six weeks with a wearable activity device or sleep tracker, suggesting that there may be long-term benefits.
3. Doorbell cameras
Doorbell video cameras are an incredibly useful smart device for seniors that allows you to:
- Look who's at your door before you answer
- Contact the postman to let him know where to leave a package if you can't make it to the door.
- Let a loved one know it's okay if you can't get to the door quickly
- Depending on the range of your smart doorbell, you can even see who's at your door when you're away from home.
- Improve how safe you feel at home
Good doorbell cameras for seniors are:
- oring the bell, which connects to a smartphone or tablet so you can see who's ringing the doorbell, wherever you are. Ring doorbells are available as wired or battery-powered options, and the wired doorbell provides continuous coverage for added security.
- oArlo Essential Wireless Video Doorphone, which connects to your WiFi network and has a viewing angle of 180°
- oGoogle Nest-Videoturklingel, which has night vision and can send smart notifications directly to a phone so you can keep your home safe even when you're away
4. GPS Tracker
A GPS tracker is a particularly useful device for older people with dementia. GPS locators can take the form of watch-type bracelets or accessories, although there are also small devices that can be attached to a key ring or belt, like this one.Dementia GPS Tracker Keychain.
gps technologyTS10 Care TrackerIt can be synced with a loved one's smartphone so you can keep track of all walks to ensure safety.
If you're concerned that it's no longer safe for a loved one with dementia to live alone, talk to your GP or explore ours.dementia care services.
5. Robot vacuum cleaner
Robotic vacuum cleaners can help make chores easier if your strength and mobility are limited. Robotic vacuums are incredibly low maintenance; All you have to do is make sure they are charged and set to clean in the desired areas.
You can sync most robot vacuums with your virtual home assistant, with models like thisiRobot Roombavacuum cleanerShark Robot IQ Auto Drain Vacuum Cleanerboth compatible.
6. Robot cortacésped

Like smart vacuums, robotic lawnmowers can do some physical chores for you. You could even program a smart lawn mower to cut your grass into satisfying strips, which is potentially much cleaner than you could do it yourself.
There are many different models of robotic lawn mowers, depending on your needs. Before choosing a smart lawn mower, you should consider the following:
- How much grass do you need to mow and how often?
- How long does it take to load the model?
- What kind of slope can the mower handle?
- The type of terrain that the robotic lawnmower can handle
If it's a relatively small piece of lawn you need to care for, a model on the lower end of the price range you'd expect to pay for a robotic lawn mower (around $250-300) might be appropriate; theMac Allister cordless robotic lawnmowerfalls into this category.
If you prefer one of the latest models on the market, bet on something like thisbosch indego s500, which you can expect at around £700.
10 of the most useful everyday gadgets for seniors
Not all gadgets for seniors are high-tech; From button hooks to bottle cap pullers, some are incredibly simple but can transform everyday tasks.
1. Glass cover remover
Jar lid removers are usually under $20 and can make opening jars much easier and help you avoid injury when you don't have as much strength as you used to.
These handy gadgets for seniors are similar to can openers, with the main part holding the lid of the jar when you pull the handle to open the jar.it isLakeland is a good example.
2. Key turner

Tongue twisters only cost a few dollars, but they can be incredibly helpful for those with limited grip or shaky fingers. These are usually rubber key rings that fit over the head of a key to make them easier to hold and allow you to get in and out of the cold much faster and easier. Thosewinged keychainthey are a great option.
3. Door handle turner
Door handles are another useful tool that makes opening doors easier. They usually take the form of an elongated handle that sits over the door handle, so you simply pull the handle to get in instead of turning it. There are several options to choose from on the page.complete office.
4. Fishhook flavor
KnopfganchosThey are another useful tool for seniors with grip problems or arthritic fingers. They simply slide into a buttonhole, allowing you to fasten them over the button in one simple motion. These small gadgets are very inexpensive and can also be useful for people with visual impairments.
5. Zipper puller
Zipper pulls are usually in the form of a button attached to a small hook that clips over a zipper and gives you extra help when dressing. Keep a supply of zipper pulls by buying them in bulk.essential helpComes in a convenient pack of 6.
6. Help to hold the bra
You can also get bra straps that allow you to hold your bra with one hand. devices like thatHelper to dress Bra Angelthey're designed to keep your bra stable as you fasten it, which can be incredibly helpful if you have shaky fingers.
7. Electronic reader

If you find your eyes straining while reading or you have more trouble holding a book, an e-reader might be for you.
When downloading eBooks on alightor Amazon Fire, you can leave the text at the size that suits you best and take advantage of the backlight, which can be much more comfortable for your eyes while reading.
Get a stand for your e-reader and you won't even have to hold it with one hand, just gently swipe the screen when you want to turn a page.
8. Screen reader
Screen readers are another wonderfully useful device for older people, especially those who are visually impaired. A screen reader can help you deal with screen reflections and hard-to-read text, and help you interpret important information more easily. theDolphin screen readerIt is a great option used by many visually impaired people.
9. Sock Helper
Sock aids work similarly to shoehorns, making it easier to slip on your socks comfortably when you have trouble bending over. Sock aids typically cost £10-15.sock helperfrom Millercare is a cost-effective and easy-to-use option.
10. Helper for long cables
Investing in a long-handled hairbrush or shoehorn can make everyday tasks easier and help you stay independent longer. Stocks of the complete supply businesslong handled hair brushesmilong stem shoehorns.
Gadgets for assisted living in old age
Assisted living devices can help you live independently for longer, with examples such as:
- stair lift
- bathtub rails
- shower bars
- Side opening bathtubs
- Adjustable chairs that can go from a sitting to a standing position
- Portable or home alarms that can alert loved ones or caregivers of falls
However, there may come a time when independent living is no longer possible and residential care is the best next step. At New Care, we can support your family through this transition and make the transition to full-time care as smooth as possible.
Find a nursing home near you, oContact UsIf you have any questions about our customer service, we will be happy to help you.
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FAQs
What items do seniors need most? ›
- Personal Alert System (a wearable electronic device designed to summon help in an emergency)
- Toilet seat riser.
- Bidet attachment for toilet.
- Grab bars for the bathroom near the toilet and shower.
- Hand-held shower head.
- Bathtub/shower transfer bench.
- Stepless/walk-in bathtub or shower.
- Apple iPad Air (5th generation)
- Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet.
- Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet.
- Apple iPad Mini 6.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0.
In our gift guides for grandmothers and grandfathers, books, digital-picture frames, socks, massage tools, and gardening tools come up time and time again. So in the survey, we asked seniors which of these products they actually found useful. Books and gardening tools came back as the most-appreciated gifts.
What is the best smart speaker for the elderly? ›- Alexa. Alexa is built into Amazon Echo digital speakers and will access your Amazon account. ...
- Bixby. This is the virtual assistant started by Samsung. ...
- Cortana. Microsoft is also in the virtual digital assistant game with Cortana. ...
- Google Assistant. ...
- Siri.
- Audiobooks.
- Books and magazines.
- Puzzles.
- Games.
- Adult coloring book.
- Sketch pad and pencils.
- Journal and pens.
- An Amazon gift card.
Comfort. There's no place like home, and wherever senior citizens stay, their comfort should always be a top priority. As they start to spend more time indoors than they used to, physical comfort becomes more and more important.
What technology is best for seniors? ›- A robot roommate.
- Tablets designed for people 75+
- Animatronic pets. ...
- A proactive pill dispenser. ...
- The next-gen of “I've fallen and can't get up!” ...
- Support in the form of a tech “pal”
Older adults may now apply t o receive a free iPad with data plan included, a s well a s training t o set- u p their devices, and access t o a n online subscription t o GetSetUp for virtual classes.
What is assistive device for elderly? ›Assistive technology (AT) is any service or tool that helps older adults or persons with disabilities perform activities that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. For older adults, such technology may be a walker to improve mobility or an amplification device to make sounds easier to hear.
What makes the elderly happy? ›Focus on abilities.
Older adults who focus on what they can do and find rewarding, rather than any decline in abilities, are happier. According to a study in The Gerontologist, accepting aging and adapting to age-related changes is vital to successful aging and well-being.
What does mcdonalds give for seniors? ›
As of 2023, McDonald's does not offer a company-wide senior discount. Some McDonald's locations offer senior discounts on small-sized drinks to those ages 55 and up; however, this discount varies by location. By downloading the McDonald's app, customers of any age can get additional discounts or promotions.
Do seniors get discounts at Walmart? ›Does Walmart Offer a Senior Discount? Unfortunately, Walmart does not offer a discount to senior citizens. One of Walmart's biggest competitors, Target, also does not provide a discount to older adults.
What is Alexa for seniors? ›One of the best features about Alexa Together for seniors is the 24/7 urgent response center. If you experience a fall or other medical emergency, just ask Alexa to call for help. You'll be connected to a response agent in less than a minute, and they will send the help that you need.
Is there an Alexa for the elderly? ›Smart Appliances
With Alexa's voice commands, seniors can simply call out and have Alexa control the lights or adjust smart appliance settings. Seniors with smart technology can control the thermostat, turn on the TV, adjust the oven temperature, monitor security systems, and more.
Carla Johnson: Care givers need love and respect for what they do. They also need someone to listen to their needs without passing judgment or giving them advice. They need a little time for themselves as well.
What personal items do you need in a nursing home? ›- TV, DVD player or tablet.
- Favorite clothing.
- Favorite shampoos, soaps and lotions.
- Favorite books.
- Special artwork or posters.
- Stuffed animal or doll.
- Sports memorabilia.
- Small items from a collection.
- DON'T send adult entertainment, alcohol or drugs (these items are illegal and can get the soldier in trouble)
- DON'T send aerosols or pressurized products.
- DON'T send firearms or ammunition (we're already armed and this is illegal)
- DON'T send perishable foods.
Senior citizens may need proper medication to remain healthy. This begins with adequate medical care, such as doctor's visits, dental care, foot care, eye care, physical therapy and psychiatric therapy, if needed.
What keeps elderly busy? ›Explore Different Hobbies
From crocheting, knitting, and baking to playing the piano and container gardening, and learning a new language, there is a lot they can do to use their time productively. Nonetheless, it is always better to explore what they like doing the most.
- Oral and mouth care. ...
- Nutrition. ...
- Hygiene. ...
- Pain relief. ...
- Bowel and bladder care. ...
- Positioning This is for comfort and to allow the person to be active if they are able but to rest when they cannot participate.
What innovative technology can help seniors with dementia? ›
- Clocks. ...
- Communication aids. ...
- Electrical appliance use monitoring. ...
- GPS location and tracking devices. ...
- Home care robots. ...
- Home monitoring devices. ...
- In-home cameras. ...
- Medication management.
- Start by addressing security concerns. ...
- Emphasize internet safety. ...
- Take it slow. ...
- Write it down. ...
- Show patience—even when teaching gets repetitive. ...
- Guide them to free resources. ...
- Explore games to get used to technology. ...
- Adapt devices to meet physical needs.
These emerging technologies were (1) assistive autonomous robots; (2) self-driving vehicles; (3) artificial intelligence–enabled health smart apps and wearables; (4) new drug release mechanisms; (5) portable diagnostics; (6) voice-activated devices; (7) virtual, augmented, and mixed reality; and (8) intelligent homes.
How can I get a free laptop for seniors? ›Your Community Senior Center
Senior community centers provide many support services for seniors. It is a good starting place to see if there are any local resources that offer free computers. A center might even offer basic computer skills training.
Assurance Wireless is part of the federal Lifeline phone assistance program. Qualifying households receive a free smartphone and accompanying benefits each month. Assurance Wireless is part of the T-Mobile network, covering 99 percent of Americans.
What size iPad is best for seniors? ›The iPad Air is best for seniors who want a larger screen.
The iPad Air has a 10.9-inch screen that's perfect for watching movies, reading ebooks, playing games and making video calls to family and friends. Seniors who are looking for a bigger screen will probably prefer the larger iPad Air over the compact iPad Mini.
Mobility assistive technology devices help older adults to get around more easily. They include, but are not limited to walking canes, activator poles, walkers, crutches, scooters (wheelchairs with electric motors), up-lift seat assists, stair elevators, rope ladders, and wheelchairs.
What are 5 assistive devices? ›- magnifiers,
- talking devices such as a talking thermostat,
- Braille displays,
- screen reading software,
- text-to-speech systems using Optical Character Recognition (OCR),
- large print materials, and.
- phones with large tactile buttons.
Assistive devices such as canes, crutches, and walkers can be used to increase a patient's base of support, improve balance, and increase activity and independence, but they are not without significant musculoskeletal and metabolic demands.
What to buy elderly parents who have everything? ›- A warm, comfortable blanket and neck pillow for elderly moms and dads. ...
- Comfortable slippers – the perfect gift for an elderly grandparent who has everything. ...
- A warm pillow massager for sore achy muscles. ...
- The gift of cold weather stretch gloves for elderly hands.
What do elderly people need less of? ›
Nutrients that become especially important as you age include protein, vitamin D, calcium and vitamin B12. SUMMARY: Older adults generally need fewer calories.
What can I buy my mom with dementia? ›- Comfy bathrobe. Physical comfort becomes more important as you get older, as does having access to clothing that is easy to slip on without needing help. ...
- Memory picture phone. ...
- Dementia coloring book. ...
- Beauty gift set. ...
- Dementia-friendly puzzles. ...
- Flowers.
- TV, DVD player or tablet.
- Favorite clothing.
- Favorite shampoos, soaps and lotions.
- Favorite books.
- Special artwork or posters.
- Stuffed animal or doll.
- Sports memorabilia.
- Small items from a collection.
“Seniors want practical and fun gifts,” said Elson. “They would like things they actually need and will actually use.” They appreciate creature comforts such as lotions, soaps, perfumes, nail care, comfortable shoes, small candies in a dish and small plants for their window sills, shared Elson.
What do 80 year olds do for fun? ›According to one study, four of the top five activities most commonly cited by seniors as being their favorites are, by their nature, very active. They include walking and jogging, gardening and yard work, playing sports, and other physical pursuits.
How much water should a 90 year old drink daily? ›Experts generally recommend that older adults consume at least 1.7 liters of fluid per 24 hours. This corresponds to 57.5 fluid ounces, or 7.1 cups.
What helps elderly fatigue? ›- Keep a fatigue diary to help you find patterns throughout the day when you feel more or less tired.
- Exercise regularly. Almost anyone, at any age, can do some type of physical activity. ...
- Try to avoid long naps (over 30 minutes) late in the day. ...
- Stop smoking. ...
- Ask for help if you feel swamped.
- Ageism and a lost sense of purpose. ...
- Financial insecurity. ...
- Difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility. ...
- Finding the right care provision. ...
- Access to healthcare services. ...
- End of life preparations.
One way of approaching the needs of your older patients during this pandemic is to break everything down into three basic categories of wellbeing and aging gracefully: physical, mental, and emotional.
How far should a 65 year old walk every day? ›Generally, older adults in good physical shape walk somewhere between 2,000 and 9,000 steps daily. This translates into walking distances of 1 and 4-1/2 miles respectively. Increasing the walking distance by roughly a mile will produce health benefits.
What 3 things would you do for the elderly people? ›
- Even if it's unstructured, volunteer in your community. ...
- Visit an old age home. ...
- Supporting old age people by listening to them. ...
- Assist them in maintaining contact with family, friends, and the community. ...
- Seniors enjoy having a good time.