Caregiving Health and Wellness Monitoring • Medication Management Tools Technology-based pill dispensers sort and dispense medications on a schedule, and may issue alerts if a dose is missed. • Wearable Emergency Alert Devices Smart watches including Apple, Google Pixel, or Garmin Forerunner can be equipped with fall detection and emergency features. Watches offer subtle safety for active older adults. Some medical alert sub- scription programs offer wearable device monitoring, and will make emergency calls to 911 if needed. Caregiving from a Distance • Tech Hacks such as the medication management tools and smart watch options can be managed remotely by caregivers by simply using an app on their smart phone. • Digital Locks and Smart Homes Similarly, digital locks allow caregivers to unlock doors remotely in an emergency. Some homes and appliances come with smart capabilities. This permits caregivers to monitor safety including the stove or garage door at their loved one’s home. • Non-invasive tools such as CarePredict or Aloe Care Health use motion sensors (not cameras) to monitor routines and detect unusual activity. Caregivers can be alerted to limited movement or changes without invading their loved one’s privacy.
Safety Hacks for Every Stage in Caregiving: Tools to Make Life Easier By Brenda Mayorquin, Aging and Caregiving Specialist Aging in a digital world doesn’t have to be scary, and caregiving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are numerous tools and smart solutions that support safety, connection, and easier living. From the simple to the tech-savvy, the hacks below can make daily life safer and more manageable. Home Safety • Lighting Installing night lights in the kitchen, staircases, hallways, and bathrooms is a simple way to brighten your steps. Motion-sensor lights that turn on as you walk into a room can also prevent late-night trips and slips. • Voice-Controlled Assistants Devices such as Amazon Echo, Google Home, or Siri can turn on lights, play music, or answer random questions. You can set medication reminders, or make a phone call to a friend or 911. • Outdoor Sensors Home communication and security systems including Ring, Nest, or SimpliSafe provide real-time video and audio interactions, so you can see who is at the door without opening it. Some sensors can also notify trusted adults about their loved one leaving unexpectedly, or wandering.
Planning for the Future • Voice-Controlled Home Hubs Centralized systems that integrate security, lighting, HVAC, and health monitoring help streamline daily routines and reduce the complexity of multiple apps and devices. There are plenty of tools that ease aging and caregiving burdens while promoting safety, independence, and peace of mind. Whether you’re aging in place, supporting a loved one, or coordinating care from afar, these safety hacks can change daily life into one that’s safer, smarter, and more connected. For more information about caregiver tools and support, contact us at (520) 790-7262.
Page 12 | September & October 2025, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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