Losing independence as you age can be upsetting, but technology can help you maintain your autonomy. Apps are easy to download to your phone and perform a variety of functions that might be difficult for you to do yourself as you get older. LifeStream at Glendale offers independent living with around-the-clock trained staff and a 24-hour emergency call system, but using these apps can add even more support to keep you independent longer.
Living by yourself can get lonely, and social isolation can lead to health issues, including a 50% higher risk of dementia. Staying connected with friends and family can keep you healthier, but this can be challenging if they don't live close to you. Video call apps let you see and hear your loved ones when you can't be together in person. Skype is a popular free option for video chats. The apps can also let your loved ones walk you through how to do things, such as using your remote or doing something on your laptop.
When you live alone, it can be more difficult to get help in an emergency. Your loved ones might also worry about you for that reason. Red Panic Button is a popular app that lets you quickly alert your emergency contacts if something goes wrong. When you hit the red button on the screen, the app sends a text and email with your GPS coordinates to all the emergency contacts you entered. This allows them to get to you or send help if they're not nearby, even if you can't tell them where you are.
Most emergency apps only work if you can activate them. That won't help if you lose consciousness or are too confused to sound the alarm. Snug Safety is a check-in app that asks you to tap the check-in button once per day. It sends a reminder before your check-in time. If you don't tap the button, it alerts your emergency contacts. It won't get you help immediately, but it can eventually let loved ones know if something's not right.
Aging adults sometimes have difficulty with eyesight and hearing, making everyday tasks challenging. Accessibility apps can help you navigate those situations. Here are some examples:
Medication is a way of life for many seniors — 89% of people aged 65 and older take prescription medication. Many of those medications are essential and need to be taken regularly. Medication management apps like Medisafe help you keep track of your prescriptions. You can input your prescription medications and Medisafe alerts you when it's time to take them. It also lets you know when it's time to refill your prescriptions to prevent you from running out.
Remembering to pay your bills on time can also become more difficult with age. Many apps will send alerts when your bills are due to help you avoid late payments. This can prevent services like your utilities or cell phone from being shut off and help you avoid late fees.
GPS tracking apps like Life 360 let loved ones know where you are. This can come in handy if you sometimes get confused or lost when you go out. They can easily find your location on the app and reach you. It's also useful if you fall or have an accident, as your loved ones can find your location if you can't communicate it to them.
If you still drive, you can use the Google Maps app to remind yourself where you parked. You simply click the blue dot and select "Set as parking location" to mark it. This can help you avoid getting lost if you get confused sometimes.
Seniors who no longer drive can use rideshare services like Lyft and Uber to get around town. Downloading those apps makes it easy to get a ride when you need one. They can help you get to medical appointments, therapy and other essential places when you don't have another way to get there.
Getting the groceries and other essentials you need can be more challenging with age. Even if you still drive, getting through the store and carrying heavy groceries into your home can be challenging. Delivery services like Instacart let you get the items you need with less difficulty. The apps for these services make ordering quick and simple.
