Being homebound doesn’t have to mean being lonely and helpless. Technology has become a great connector for homebound family members. In addition to fostering deeper connections with loved Preview (opens in a new tab)ones, technology is also making it possible for homebound adults to retain independence by tapping into delivery services, online shopping tools, and more.
Of course, the best part is watching your loved one’s face light up from the other side of the screen!
Connection isn’t just about convenience. Isolation is detrimental to the physical and mental health of aging adults. According to data from the National Institute on Aging, research has linked social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and death.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) points to studies that show that social isolation in people over 50 significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death from all causes. Loneliness is actually more dangerous than smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Being lonely leads to:
- 29% increased risk of heart disease.
- 32% increased risk of stroke.
- 68% increased risk of hospitalization.
- 57% increased risk of emergency department visits.
- Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.
One digital interaction a day can drastically alter a person’s sense of connection. Which tools are the best for staying connected when life beyond the front door isn’t always easily accessible?
Take a look at these, four products for keeping your homebound loved one connected through technology.
Video Calls
You don’t have to be tech-savvy to boost your homebound loved one’s spirits using technology. Simple video calls can enhance connection by allowing your loved one to make eye contact, read expressions, and mirror your cues. Zoom, Skype, Facebook Messenger, and FaceTime are just some simple applications anyone can use to connect.
If your loved one has trouble working with computers and phones, consider investing in something like the Facebook Portal. This little piece of technology allows your loved one to activate a call with a simple voice command.
GrandPad
We all know that adapting to new technology can be difficult after a certain age. There’s a great product to know about if your homebound loved one has been too frustrated with screens to use them to connect with you. GrandPad is a tablet designed specifically for seniors over the age 75. The modified interface on GrandPad allows for frustration-free video calls, messaging, and photo sharing.
Skylight Frame
Skylight is a great product that ensures your homebound loved one doesn’t feel left out just because they don’t go online.
After connecting the device to Wi-Fi, loved ones can simply upload photos of baseball games, school events, birthday parties, and other family moments using a custom email address. The photos will display within the frame instantly!
Amazon Echo
The Amazon Echo is a great device for helping homebound individuals organize their days. This device offers voice interaction, to-do lists, alarms, weather reports, and real-time information. You can even set up an Amazon account to enable your loved one to add grocery items to a digital shopping cart using voice commands.
Close the Communication Gap With Home Healthcare Service
Technology is amazing for closing homebound seniors’ gaps in personal connection. However, technology can only go so far before human connection becomes necessary. That’s why quality home health care services are vital for seniors struggling with living at home.
Home healthcare services empower seniors to maintain their independence without taking on unnecessary risks tied to “doing it alone.” Angel Home Health aides specialize in compassionate, competent care that allows your loved one to continue living independently.
The best part is that our care providers are happy to use whatever technology you prefer to keep everyone in the loop regarding your loved one’s condition! Don’t spend another day feeling torn about finding the right home health aide in Dallas. Contact Angel Home Healthcare Services to give your loved one the hands-on care they deserve!