Gary Edward Barg
Founder and Editor-in-Chief, “Today’s Caregiver” Magazine and Caregiver.com
For the past 20 years, “Today’s Caregiver” magazine has conducted the annual Caregiver Friendly Awards program to honor those dedicated experts who have made products, services, and media designed to make the lives of the family caregiver easier. Many of these awards have been given to innovative technology solutions for the challenges caregivers face.
This year, more than ever before, such technology is important to keep our loved ones from becoming isolated as we shelter in place. The good news is that many of these solutions are already at our fingertips in smartphones and desktop computers.
Tech for caregivers
- Telehealth ensures we do not miss doctor appointments even if the visits are virtual as opposed to in-person.
- Video calls allow us to make regular calls to isolated loved ones and maintain vital connections. They also allow other family members to see how they’re loved one is progressing during the pandemic. Families are even holding virtual holiday celebrations.
- Home safety devices, from fall prevention devices to stove monitors to wandering alert devices, help our homes become safer havens for our loved ones to live in during this pandemic.
- Online support groups have restored community and camaraderie among senior communities, albeit virtually, that could have been lost due to COVID-19. Many caregiving and disease organizations conduct regular virtual support groups for caregivers and our loved ones.
- Virtual caregiver conferences and webinars have replaced most of the local and national conferences that were scheduled as live events this year. Through streaming conference programs like Zoom, Bluejeans, and WebEx, you can find the same advice, support and expert wisdom in the comfort of your own home.
Until we are again able to attend live events, physician office visits, and family gatherings, technology offers easy, cost-efficient, and safe options to stay connected. That is indeed good medicine for difficult days.