What is Wearable Technology for Seniors?

Do you have a smartwatch? How about an iPad? These days, you can find examples of wearable technology everywhere you look. Thanks to modern technology advances and new product inventions, we have a wide selection of devices that we can wear every day.
For seniors, wearable devices are especially useful because they can help improve your life by keeping you safe and monitoring your health.

Types of Wearable Technology

Researchers are constantly looking for ways to improve products and utilize technology to make our lives easier and more convenient. Here are a few examples of wearable technology:

Smartwatches

Once upon a time, the only thing you could do with a watch was tell the time. But these days, you can wear a smartwatch, which is essentially like a mini-computer that connects to your cell phone. The Apple Watch is probably the best-known brand of smartwatches and its capabilities include:

• Sending text messages
• Making phone calls
• Listening to music
• Emergency calls
• Newer models even have a built-in heart monitor

Another popular smartwatch is the Fitbit. Specifically designed to track activity, the Fitbit is equipped with features to help you live a healthy life. Watches like the Fitbit monitor your exercise, sleep patterns and your heart rate to help keep you on track with your physical health goals.

Medical Devices

Some wearable devices can assist your doctor with monitoring certain conditions. For example, an EKG monitor can be placed in your pocket and relay information about your heart directly to your doctor’s office.

Researchers are actively trying to come up with ways to detect medical conditions on a day-to-day basis. For example, some smartphone apps can track Alzheimer’s symptoms and determine the stage of the disease by tracking effects of the disease.

More Examples of Wearable Technology

• Smart glasses have a wide variety of uses. They can change lenses to accommodate for sunlight. You can take pictures with a voice command. They can also be equipped with augmented reality technology, intended to assist you with your everyday home life. Smart glasses are still being developed and tested, and currently cost approximately $1,000. Experts are predicting the price will decrease in the near future as more companies begin to make them.
• Smart clothes are a new development that integrates technology into your clothing. For example, smart shirts could track your heart and breathing rate, while smart sleepwear could help you get more rest at night by adjusting your body’s temperature.
• Navigation services can help seniors with disabilities get around safely. The Aira service can be downloaded to any smartphone or smartwatch and the service will guide visually impaired persons to their destination. And of course, GPS systems are incredibly useful in tracking where you are and providing directions in case you get lost.

Convenient Senior Living in Rochester, NY

Looking for the right senior living option for yourself or your loved one? At ESLC, you’ll find welcoming communities committed to providing a strong foundation for a healthy, inspired life. If you’re interested in learning more about our full continuum of compassionate senior care services, please contact us today and schedule a personal tour so you can see all that our vibrant communities have to offer.