Seniors in Knoxville, TN, can now monitor their health, stay connected, and live more independent lives with wearable technology.
If that sounds like a news headline, it’s because wearable technology for seniors is changing lives, and that’s something to take note of, especially if you or a loved one are looking for ways to maintain independence.
Senior wellness technology can transform how older adults manage their health and safety. From smartwatches to fitness trackers to wearable health monitors, these health-tracking devices work in real time, and some even provide access to emergency assistance.
Experience the peace of mind that comes with tracking vital signs, receiving medication reminders, and having fall detection at your fingertips. Discover the many benefits of wearable technology for older adults.
Embrace the future of senior care today!
How Wearable Technology for Seniors Works
If you’re like many people, when you hear the word “technology,” you change the channel. We’re inundated with new technology every day and it can feel overwhelming to have to think about how to use yet another complicated device. The good news is that most wearables are easy to use!
Wearables, sometimes called senior safety gadgets, are electronic devices you can wear as accessories or clothing. Wearable devices collect data and give real-time feedback about the following:
- Heart rate
- Blood pressure
- Blood oxygen levels
- ECG (electrocardiogram) data
- Steps taken
- Calories burned
- Sleep patterns
- Fall detection data
- GPS location
- Stress levels
- UV exposure
When using senior wellness technology, these data points help seniors and their caregivers monitor health and safety effectively.
Common Health Tracking Devices
With over 224 million people wearing them worldwide, smartwatches are one of the most common wearable devices. Smartwatches offer health monitoring, communication, and safety features. If programmed to do so, your smartwatch can detect a fall and notify emergency services.
Examples of other popular wearable technology for seniors include:
- Fitness trackers
- Sleep monitors
- Medical alert devices
- GPS shoes
- Smart socks
While not specifically designed for the elderly, fitness devices can provide a lot of the information important to senior health and safety. Fitness trackers count steps, but some also track heart rate and other health metrics, like sleep patterns and stress levels.
Some smartwatch models can send out a fall alert, but you can also use devices designed for fall detection. Most medical alert devices are worn as either a pendant or bracelet.
If your loved one is dealing with cognitive decline, GPS shoes can help locate them if they wander off.
Smart socks are innovative wearables that can track vital signs, including temperature. Some smart socks monitor foot health for people with diabetes, detecting issues like ulcers or pressure points.
Benefits of Wearable Health Tracking Devices
Years ago, if you wanted to find out about your blood pressure, you bought a sphygmomanometer, a.k.a. blood pressure cuff. Calculating your heart rate was as simple as finding your pulse and counting the beats for one minute. Wearable technology has changed everything!
Now, tracking vital signs doesn’t require an awkward, bulky device that is hard to use without help. One significant benefit of using wearable technology for seniors is their ability to monitor heart rate and blood pressure.
Wearables not only monitor vital signs, but they also provide real-time data that can be crucial for prompt medical intervention. Continuous monitoring helps detect irregularities early, potentially preventing serious health issues.
You may have heard about wearables that measure blood glucose levels. These wearables come in the form of a smartwatch or smart ring. The FDA has not approved either device as a method to accurately measure blood glucose. Use caution when considering this type of wearable device.
Wearables Used for Fitness and Activity Tracking
Wearables encourage seniors to stay active by tracking steps, providing exercise reminders, and setting activity goals. With over 112 miles of trails and greenways, Knoxville, TN, provides ample opportunity to stay fit through walking.
Fitness trackers motivate you to move!
Trackers send alerts when the wearer has been inactive for too long. They’re not only there for reminders; trackers also celebrate wins by sending alerts when the wearer reaches a specific fitness goal.
What a fun way to reduce sedentary behavior and promote a more active and healthier lifestyle. If you visit the community at Deane Hill Place, you’ll likely see many of our residents using wearable technology for seniors.
Tracking Sleep Quality with Wearables
Good sleep is essential for maintaining overall health. Wearables that track sleep can help identify issues like sleep apnea or insomnia, leading to better management and treatment.
Wearables used to track sleep include:
- Rings
- Wrist bands
- Headbands
- Smartwatches
Wearables monitor sleep quality and duration, providing insights into sleep patterns. This data can help seniors and their caregivers make informed decisions to improve sleep hygiene.
Medication Management and Wearables
Wearables can play a crucial role in helping seniors manage their medications by providing timely reminders. Reminders help reduce the risk of missed doses and ensure proper management of health conditions.
Pair a smartwatch with a medication management app. Pairing a wearable with an online app means the wearer receives medication notifications. The apps often provide medication logs.
These wearables not only help in maintaining a consistent medication schedule but also allow caregivers and healthcare providers to monitor adherence remotely, providing an added layer of support and safety for seniors.
Wearables Help Seniors Stay Connected
Here at Deane Hill Place, we have a vibrant, active senior community. Residents can participate in group excursions and a range of social activities. Even so, it’s easy to feel lonely and miss friends and family.
Wearables enhance social connectivity for seniors, helping them stay in touch with loved ones.
Some smartwatches allow users to make and receive calls and texts directly from their wrist, making communication more accessible and convenient. This feature is particularly beneficial for seniors who may find it challenging to use a smartphone.
Discover Independence at Deane Hill Place
Wearable technology for seniors offers many benefits, from health monitoring to enhanced safety and independence.
At Deane Hill Place in Knoxville, TN, we’ve spent years creating a trusted senior living community where residents can thrive, stay safe, and enjoy life fully. Our commitment to helping seniors maintain independence and well-being sets us apart.
Explore how our community can enrich your loved one’s life. Schedule a tour today!
