No matter how hard we try, human beings cannot possibly remember to do everything they planned for the days or weeks ahead. We rely on aids, like schedules, agendas, calendars, and (more recently) cellphones and computers. Perhaps the biggest thing that has improved the quality of our lives is technology. It is all around us whether we like it or not. Our morning alarms are usually electric, our cell phones are capable of accessing the Internet, our health information is generally stored on a computer database, and the list goes on. There is rarely an aspect of our lives (at least, in the United States) that is not somehow impacted by technology. Instead of being overwhelmed by the myriad technologies out there, people can pay attention to what can make their lives easier.

In this blog, we want to make you aware of certain technologies that can help improve your life as a family caregiver caring for someone with a degenerative neurological disorder. Disorders like Alzheimer's and other dementias is difficult to manage, and caregivers by themselves cannot possibly prepare for every potential situation or emergency. This is why  ElderCare at Home wants to let you know the ways technology can help you tremendously.

Below, we list some useful devices to consider buying if you are a family caregiver in the need for some more assistance.

Medication Management: One of the most difficult things to keep track of is taking medication doses, especially if you are trying to keep track of it for other people. According to  alzheimers.net, pillboxes can be as simple as a box containing daily compartments, or it can be a machine that automatically dispenses medications as it reminds caregivers of the time to take a dose. Consider which kind might work for you.

ElderCare at Home also refers CNA's/HHA's who can assist with  medication management.

Medical Alert Systems: There are a variety of technologies that act as quick and easy ways to call for help. There are devices that can be worn at home in case your loved one falls and there are also more portable devices, like Apple Watches, which come with security features in case your loved one has to call an emergency service outside of the home. This kind of technology is not be useful for those in the late stages of a degenerative neurological disorder, but may be appropriate for those in the early stages. [1]

Cell phones: Do not underestimate the power of modern cell phones. They can be very powerful tools in terms of the ease with which they can access the internet, utilize apps, and perform calculations. If you are looking for a new cellular device, consider talking to your provider about useful smart phones that suit your needs.

Home Robots: This one might sound strange, but you would be surprised just how much some home appliances can run automatically, like vacuum cleaners and even the automatic pill dispenser mentioned above. These devices can help take your mind off of tasks that may otherwise cloud your memory.

Monitoring Devices: This can be very useful if you are a caregiver that does not live near your loved one. These monitoring devices can tell you when lights are turned on or off, when the thermostat has changed, or can let you know what room your loved one is in. [2] These devices can also include cameras installed in rooms around the home to let you monitor your loved one if safety is a concern of yours.

[1] Source:  https://www.theseniorlist.com/alzheimers/technology/
[2] Source:  https://www.alzheimers.net/9-22-14-technology-for-dementia/