Modern Technologies to Help Keep Your Loved Ones Safe

As people age and health declines, safety is a substantial concern for family members and loved ones. Increasing the use of technology can be a great solution to ensure the safety and independence of older adults. Today, there are many safety and security products available. Check out our list below to learn about ten options that may improve the lives of your family! 

Try These Safety-Boosting Tech Items! 

1. KeySafe Wall-Mount Lock Box

   The KeySafe Wall-Mount Lock Box holds up to two keys in a durable and secure safe. There are more than 1,000 lock combinations available, which can be changed anytime. This lockbox can be attached to any flat surface, inside or outside, using four screws. This lockbox is compact and provides easy use for friends and family to enter someone’s home in emergencies if the resident is unable to get to the door.

   Price: $29.97

2. CareLink Social Alarm

   The CareLink Social Alarm can be used anywhere inside of the home and as far as 250 meters outside the house. It connects with a landline phone or a cell phone for access to the two-way speech feature. This social alarm can be worn as a wristband or as a clip attached to clothing to reach help in an emergency. Once the alarm button is activated, the user will automatically connect with a CareLink operator, available 24/7.

   Price: $362.84
   

   
   
   

3. Doro Social Alarm

   The Doro Eliza social alarm is a single-button alarm device that connects with telecare sensors to send help in emergencies. The design’s vertical structure was developed so that the device can be placed anywhere in a home. This device is high in quality and reliability while achieving a minimalist design to eliminate technical difficulties and confusion. The Doro Eliza received the 2020 iF Design Award for the aesthetic and reliable security of the device.

   Price: not listed

4. Ring Video Doorbell

   The Ring Video Doorbell connects to a user’s mobile device to show video footage of who is at the door from anywhere. This device offers visual and audio access to anyone at the door from their phone so that they never miss a visitor. It also provides past footage, so if a break-in were to occur, there would be video evidence with high camera quality, day or night. To set up, download the Ring app and follow the quick and easy setup instructions.

   Price: $99

5. Verizon GizmoWatch 2

   Verizon’s GizmoWatch 2 is an easy-to-use smartwatch with six features: (1) clock, (2) call, (3) text, (4) set reminders, (5) track steps, (6) GPS tracker. This watch has space for ten contacts to call or text to send a pre-written message in emergencies. It connects to the GizmoHub app, which can be used by a family member or caretaker to ensure the safety of the person wearing the watch. The GPS feature also can have set boundaries. If a boundary is crossed, a notification will be automatically sent to the app.

   Price: $99

6. Philips Hue White Ambiance Starter Kit E26

   More than 800,000 people are hospitalized each year due to a fall injury in the United States. Smart lights can help reduce the risk of falling during the night due to walking in the dark. The Philips Hue White Ambiance Starter Kit E26 allows users to turn lights on and off using voice control or Bluetooth. These smart lights can also change the brightness and color of the lights. With the Philips Hue app, users can change the lighting or turn the lights on and off from anywhere.

   Price: $119.99

7. KardiaMobile EKG Monitor

   The KardiaMobile is a remote heart monitor that captures an EKG (Electrocardiography) in 30 seconds. This device also includes a phone clip to attach the monitor to a phone. This small device is FDA-approved and detects Bradycardia, Atrial Fibrillation, Tachycardia, or normal heart rhythm. Users can see and send their EKG to their doctor from the KardiaMobile app instantly. The app also provides users with an EKG review by a cardiologist every 90 days and a monthly EKG summary report.

   Price: $89

8. MedMinder Pill Dispenser

   The MedMinder Pill Dispenser allows users or caretakers to quickly program a medication schedule to ensure that the right medication dosages are taken at the right time without the need for an internet connection. This device has an interactive screen that includes audio recordings, a personal photo album, and reminders to alert that it is time to take medication. Daily reports will show when medications were taken, if a medication was missed, and when the pill trays need to be refilled. There is an optional safety lock feature that will unlock the correct pill compartment for additional safety.
   
   Price: $49.99/month

9. iRobot Cleaning Products

   iRobot’s self-cleaning products can prevent injuries for those who have low mobility. The Roomba 675 Robot Vacuum uses sensors to navigate and vacuum the floors by pressing the “clean” button. This smart vacuum will run for up to 90 minutes before shutting down and automatically recharging and can clean carpet, hard floors, and under furniture. Another popular iRobot product is the Braava Jet 240 Robot Mop. This smart mop uses a precision jet spray and vibrating cleaning head to navigate and clean hard-to-reach places. These products are sold separately or sold as a bundle for a lower price.

   Price (Roomba 675 Robot Vacuum): $274.99
   
   Price (Braava Jet 240 Robot Mop Cost): $179.99
   
   Price (Bundle Cost): $386.98

10. FireAvert Stove Fire Prevention

    Electric stoves are the leading cause of home fires in the United States, leading to 500 yearly deaths. The FireAvert Stove Fire Prevention protects against stove fires by plugging the device into the back of the stove. This device listens for the smoke alarm and will automatically turn off the stove before a fire starts.

    Price: $149.99