As we age, many everyday activities become more
challenging, particularly for those in their late 70s and 80s or those with
chronic illnesses. Here’s an expanded look at these challenges and how
Technology can assist.

Homemaking

Cooking and Cleaning: Tasks like cooking and cleaning can be tough. Handling big pots or
opening bottles can be difficult due to reduced strength or arthritis. Technology
Solution: Kitchen gadgets like electric can openers or lightweight cookware
can make cooking easier. Robot vacuum cleaners, like the Roomba, can help with
cleaning.

• Link: iRobot
  Roomba

Getting Around

Using Stairs and Walking: Navigating stairs and walking long distances can be strenuous. Technology
Solution: Stairlifts can help seniors move between floors safely. Mobility
scooters provide a comfortable way to Travel longer distances.

• Link: Stannah
  Stairlifts

Going to the Store and Opening Doors: Even simple tasks like going to the store or opening heavy doors can be
challenging. Technology Solution: Grocery delivery services can bring
essentials directly to their door. Automatic door openers can make entering and
exiting easier.

• Link: Instacart

Driving: Driving, especially
at night or over long distances, can be daunting. Technology Solution:
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft can provide transportation options. For
those who still drive, navigation apps like Google Maps can assist with
directions.

• Link: Uber

Outside Chores

Lawn Care and Garden Work: Mowing the lawn, Gardening, or putting up Christmas lights require
physical effort and can be risky. Technology Solution: Lawn care
services and gardening apps can help manage these tasks more easily.

• Link: TaskRabbit

Personal Care

Bathing: Bathing can become
hazardous due to the risk of slipping. Technology Solution: Walk-in
bathtubs and shower chairs can enhance safety and comfort.

• Link: Safe Step Walk-In Tub

Miscellaneous

Paying Bills and Making Phone Calls: Managing finances and making phone calls can be challenging, especially
with hearing or vision impairments. Technology Solution: Online banking
apps and voice-activated assistants like Alexa can help manage bills and make
calls more easily.

• Link: Amazon
  Alexa

Reading Labels and Price Tags: Poor eyesight can make reading labels and price tags difficult. Technology
Solution: Magnifying apps or devices can assist in reading small print.

• Link: Magnifying Glass + Flashlight App

Recreation, Sport, Hobbies: Engaging in hobbies and sports can become harder with age. Technology
Solution: There are online communities and virtual classes for almost every
hobby, from knitting to book clubs, which allow seniors to stay active and
engaged.

• Link: Meetup

Technology provides many solutions to help seniors
maintain their independence and quality of life as they age. From apps that
assist with everyday tasks to devices that ensure safety, there are numerous
ways to make life easier and more enjoyable.

Originally Published on https://boomersnotsenior.blogspot.com/

Royce Shook Blogger

I served as a teacher, a teacher on Call, a Department Head, a District Curriculum, Specialist, a Program Coordinator, and a Provincial Curriculum Coordinator over a forty year career. In addition, I was the Department Head for Curriculum and Instruction, as well as a professor both online and in person at the University of Phoenix (Canada) from 2000-2010.

I also worked with Special Needs students. I gave workshops on curriculum development and staff training before I fully retired