With 97% of seniors wanting to reside in their own home for as long as possible, it is crucial that proper steps are taken in order for that to happen. Though this is a desire for almost the entire aging population, less than half of them have done research in order to find ways to make this dream a reality. On account of the lack of research done, it often does not turn out favoring the aging. Often families turn to traditional ways of caring for the aging; that being assisted living or nursing home. Though the traditional route is not a bad option, it is often not what the person it is affecting the most wanted. It does, however, make sense as to why people would want their aging parents to be in a facility that is assisted living or a nursing home. They take a sigh of relief because they are assured that their loved one is getting the care they need. However, not all people thrive in such an environment. Often, the person does not want to be in a place like that, but would rather prefer to be at home where they are comfortable.

Technology for aging is often overlooked on account of lack of knowledge and the fear of being watched over all the time. Trying something new can be intimidating, but in the case of assistive technology, it almost always proves fruitful.  No matter if the technology is needed for medication monitoring cooking safety such as a stove or oven monitor or if it is a bit more extensive like a system that monitors daily living sequences, there are options that are totally user friendly and provide personalized outcomes.

Knowing that is only step one. Step two is doing some research on what you or your loved one actually needs. Are you afraid of falling and not having the ability to call someone? Are you worried about taking medicine on time? Is wandering of concern? With the help of family and professionals, it is crucial to decide what your priorities look like.

Step three is giving it a try. Technology can be for everyone just so long as everyone is on board with it. Often is it a challenge if not everyone is committed to the technology because then it either goes unused or is misused in which case it is not assistive technology because it loses its assistive aspect.

Be encouraged that this technology is not in an effort to be “Big Brother,” but rather to be an attentive caretaker, even from a distance.