Over the last few weeks, at different social events, I heard from 3 different individuals about their desires to “age well in place in good health” but feeling overwhelmed by all the apps and tech that “they say” could be helpful. The common question in all 3 conversations was: ‘how do I decide which apps and tech to use?’

According to AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons), and CARP (the Canadian Association of Retired Persons) about 86% of older adults in the US (aged 65 and older), and 96% of Canadians want to age well at home, or at least within the communities they currently live in.  

Aging well in place refers to the ability of older adults to live safely, independently, and comfortably in their homes and communities, regardless of age, income or ability level.

A US News and World Report poll found that 93% of the 2000 US adults surveyed reported using or desiring to use different technologies to help them with aging in place, including medical wearables (such as medical alerts), smart home systems, voice-activated apps, and various mobile apps.

Several studies, such as this one by Kainiemi and colleagues, or this one by Erickson and Johnson suggest that health tech and digital health is largely beneficial to senior adults’ goals of aging well in place. However, less research has been done addressing the decision overwhelm that is happening with the increasing availability of different technologies and how to navigate it for more optimal decisions.

Technology plays a vital role in supporting aging well in place, enabling seniors to monitor their health, manage medication, live independently and connect with loved ones as they age – yet many seniors find selecting and using various technologies confusing or cumbersome – leading to technological overwhelm.

Aging in place with the help of modern technology can seem daunting. With so many gadgets, apps, and devices promising to enhance our health and safety, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, by understanding how to make informed decisions about assistive technology, older adults can use these tools to improve their lives and maintain their independence.

Some of the common questions and concerns I hear include:

What kind of technology do I need? Which technologies are right for me?

With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which technologies will truly benefit us in our everyday lives. From medication reminders to fall detection systems, it’s important to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences before making a decision.

How do I choose the right devices and apps?

As a decision scientist, I recommend a systematic approach to choosing between different devices, apps and tech. Below I briefly outline a useful starting approach.

Will it be difficult to learn how to use these technologies?

Learning how to use devices and applications can be challenging, but with patience and persistence and help from others, it is possible to harness the power of technology to improve your quality of life.

How do I ensure my data is safe and secure?

A common concern when it comes to using technology is ensuring that our personal information is secure. It’s important to educate ourselves on best practices for protecting our data and privacy online.

A Decision Scientist’s Advice

Decision scientists study how people make choices and provide strategies to make better decisions. Here are some tips on how to make crucial decisions about assistive technologies:

1.    Understand and Define Your Needs

The first step in making smart decisions about technology is to understand your specific needs. Not all seniors require the same tools, and what works for one person might not be necessary for another. Consider the following:

• Health Needs: Do you have chronic conditions that require regular monitoring, like diabetes or hypertension? Apps and devices that track vital signs and medication schedules could be beneficial.
• Mobility: If you have difficulty moving around your home, smart home devices like automated lights and voice-activated assistants can make daily tasks easier.
• Safety: For those concerned about falls or emergencies, wearable devices with alert systems and smart home security features can provide peace of mind.

2. Have Clear Goals

Understand what you want to achieve with the technology. Is it better health management, increased safety, or easier daily living? Clarify your goals and priorities: Before making a decision about which technologies to adopt, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your goals and priorities. Are you looking for tools to help you stay connected with loved ones, monitor your health, or enhance your comfort at home? By defining your objectives, you can narrow down your options and make a more informed choice.

3. Prioritize Your Needs

Focus on your most pressing needs first. You don’t need to adopt all available technologies at once.

4. Evaluate Options and Choose the Right Tools

Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, it’s time to explore your options. I recommend a systematic approach to choosing technology:

• Research and Reviews: Look for reviews from trusted sources. Websites like AARP and Consumer Reports often review tech products for seniors.
• Usability: Choose devices and apps that are user-friendly. Many products are specifically designed with seniors in mind, featuring larger buttons, simple interfaces, and voice commands.
• Compatibility: Ensure the technology you choose can easily integrate with other devices you already use, like smartphones or tablets.
• Compare: Look at multiple products and compare them. Consider factors like ease of use, cost, and customer support.

• Consider the costs and benefits: When evaluating different technologies, it’s essential to weigh the costs and benefits associated with each option. Decision scientists can help seniors analyze the potential risks and rewards of adopting a particular technology, ensuring that they make a decision that aligns with their values and preferences.
• Seek expert advice: Healthcare professionals and tech experts can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their knowledge and experience, helping seniors make sound decisions that meet their unique needs.
• Trial Periods: If possible, take advantage of trial periods to test whether the technology meets your needs before making a commitment.

5. Learn to Use Technology

A common concern is the perceived difficulty in learning how to use new technology. Here are some tips to ease the learning curve:

• Start Small: Begin with one or two devices or apps and gradually add more as you become comfortable.
• Seek Support: Many communities offer technology classes for seniors. Additionally, family members or friends can often provide help.
• Use Online Resources: Websites like YouTube have countless tutorials that can guide you step-by-step through using new technology.

6. Ensure Data Security

Protecting your personal information is crucial. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for each device and app.
• Regular Updates: Keep all your devices and apps updated to benefit from the latest security features.
• Privacy Settings: Adjust the privacy settings on your devices to control what information is shared and with whom.
• Have a healthy skepticism towards any online (or other) offers. Educate yourself about scams, particularly those that target seniors, and don’t engage with anyone whom you suspect may be a scammer. Ask a trusted family member or friend to help you judge if an offer (through email or other online or connected device) is a possible scam.

While the array of technology available can be overwhelming, taking a step-by-step approach can make the process manageable. By understanding your needs, choosing the right tools, learning how to use them, and protecting your data, you can harness the power of technology to age well and healthily in place. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone—seek support from loved ones, community resources, and professionals to make informed decisions that enhance your quality of life. Decision scientists can also help people make informed choices about assistive technologies so that they can navigate the digital world with confidence and optimize their well-being. Embrace the possibilities that technology has to offer and enjoy the benefits of aging healthily in place!

What are some of your go-to technologies, apps and devices for healthy living?

Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash