Home for the Long Haul: Essentials for Aging Well in Place

What goes up but never comes down?

You probably already know the answer to that riddle. Age.

There are currently more than 8 million Canadians over the age of 65. Remarkably,12,281 of them are over 100 years old. Although we don’t always like to talk about it, the reality is that with getting over the hill, people often require additional support to maintain their independence.

That’s not much of a surprise, you may be thinking. I already know that some older folks struggle with day-to-day routines like putting on socks, climbing out of the shower, answering a text, or managing their cash.

Yes. And you may also understand that despite these challenges, most of us aren’t ready to trade in our comfort and keys for a third-floor window view at the local nursing home.

So, how do we ensure that the ones we’re taking care of can continue to stay in their home, maintaining “dignity, control, and familiarity”?

Thankfully, we live in a world where tech is focused on solving many of the issues that go hand in hand with an aging population and increased life expectancy.

Necessities for Aging Well at Home

When considering options to enhance your space, Dr. Treva Job, Primary Healthcare Nurse Practitioner and College Professor, explains that “it’s important to consider safety, independence, communication, and quality of life”.

Safety

When it comes to stability, well-being, and avoiding harm, Dr. Job recommends the following:

• video doors, cameras, smart locks, stove and water shut-offs, leak sensors
• high contrast displays with minimal steps to operate
• motion sensors that alert family members of unusual behaviour, or lack of movement
• motion-activated hallway and bathroom lights to prevent falls

Independence

Aging at home is not only cozier and familiar but is also economically more feasible.

“Don’t be afraid to spend some money on safety for you and your house,” advises Occupational Therapist Amy Fischer. She suggests devices like Alexa, Amazon Echo or Sonos as memory aids, providing appointment updates and prompts for specific dates or events. They also remind you to:

• take medication
• eat
• do your daily strength exercises and stretches, which will keep you independent longer

Communication

To facilitate tete-a-tetes and to share our needs, concerns, or emergencies with others, we need communication devices that allow for hands-free phone calls and have large font compatibility.

Having stable wifi throughout your entire home, sufficient internet speed and reliable backup power sources “are especially critical in rural areas,” clarifies Dr. Job.

Quality of life

Technology allows us to not only survive but to thrive. It can “improve relationships between older persons and their caregivers, both in terms of quality and quantity”.

For example, monitoring health apps such as blood pressure and glucose monitors can be connected to your phone and watch.

Complicated features, however, add stress rather than peace. Apps and devices need to be easy to use for both seniors as well as their caregivers.

The elephant in the room: Technophobia is real

We can’t fail to mention that some of those collecting a pension cheque would rather throw their cellphone at bird feeder squirrels than learn how to use it. New technologies can be hard to grasp.

“This is a tough one because most aging individuals are not as tech-friendly or understanding,” reflects Dr. Job.  “There must be minimal steps to operate.”

 This is where Balaklava comes in. As you know, we simplify things. We’re here to make your life easier. We will help you with:

• automated systems that caregivers can monitor even when not physically at the residence.
• screens that provide more contrast and are easier to see and use
• tech that is easier to operate for both the homeowner and those looking out for them. Caregivers don’t need any more piled on top of their already-excessive expectations.
• customizable solutions: we focus on your specific needs and wants. You will have more independence and peace of mind.

Sources 1 2 3  Dr. Treva Job, PhD, MA Ed, PHC-NP and Amy Fischer, OT