If you’re currently serving as a caregiver for an aging in place elderly parent, you’re not alone. In fact, there are millions of Americans right now who are in the same situation. But it’s certainly not easy, and you probably worry daily about the health and wellbeing of mom or dad when you’re not around. But thanks to the technological age we live in, there are more high-tech gadgets and gizmos available than ever before to assist your caregiving efforts. Here are 5 innovative ways that modern technology can help you care for an elderly parent.

1. GPS Monitors

If your parent is still active, but they also tend to get lost, one of the reliable ways to track their whereabouts is by using GPS. There are now downloadable tracking apps for Smartphones, or pendant and watch monitoring systems that can be worn discretely. Be aware that some seniors view GPS technology as a violation of their privacy, so respectfully get permission beforehand from your mom or dad to use it.

For those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, there’s always the chance they’ll get confused and wander off. Most seniors with cognitive impairment don’t like to carry Smartphones or wear monitoring jewelry, so you’ll need to come up with another plan. One way to do so is with a product called SmartSole (available on Amazon) which hides a GPS tracking device within a shoe insert. That way, you can monitor your parent’s location without them knowing about it.

2. Electronic Medication Reminders

A major problem for the average senior is remembering to take all their medications as prescribed, and old-fashioned pillboxes are usually not effective. To simplify your job as a caregiver, keep mom or dad compliant by using one of these electronic medication reminders:

3. Social Media

Social media keeps many seniors happier and healthier by allowing them to stay in touch with long-distance friends and family members. Professional home care agencies even use social media platforms like Skype and Facebook Live to check in on clients, especially when inclement weather interferes with routine home visits. At the click of a button, social media allows seniors to learn new hobbies, meet new friends and keep up with the latest news. And, as a caregiver, social media can also help you ensure that your parent is safe and sound.

4. PERS Devices

A Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is a medical alert device that allows the wearer to call for help, like when they fall, at the touch of a button. Most PERS gadgets also use GPS tracking to guide first responders, and many have capabilities for storing and then downloading a senior’s medical history when needed.

Some of the better medical alert devices include:

So even if you’re not there during an emergency, your parent can promptly get the help they need by wearing a PERS device.

5. Home Motion Sensors

These work well for at-home seniors with Alzheimer’s or for those who are bed bound most of the day. A system like SafeinHome will detect and notify you when there’s someone moving around in the home via a Smartphone app or website. It even records the indoor temperature to alert you if there’s a fire, open window or if the stove has been left on. Another plus with SafeinHome is that it doesn’t require your loved one to do anything!

We’re an Extended Family in Your Parent’s Home

Using modern technology to assist your caregiving efforts works well, but glitches can still occur. When you need an extra set of eyes and ears in your loved one’s home, call First In Care. As a fully licensed and insured home care agency, our compassionate caregivers will serve as an extended family in your senior’s home so they can continue aging comfortably in place right where they want to be.

While in the home, our highly trained and carefully screened aides can also perform duties like light housework, personal hygiene, medication reminders, meal preparation, transportation and companionship. And, all our family trusted services can be flexibly combined in an affordable package to put your mind at ease. To learn more about First In Care, or to schedule a FREE, in-home assessment for a senior in Manatee Country, FL, today, please visit: www.firstincare.com now!