Most people are familiar with ways to connect via video call with apps like Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams, as well as using a smartphone or Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp. Smart home options incorporating things like video doorbells, speakers to get voice commands and ways to control lights and entertainment systems can be found on Amazon. com and through Apple and Google home. You can also create a smart home system at the open source Home Assistant www.home-assistant.io.
Also, don’t forget about social media, like Facebook, Twitter (now X) and Threads, as a way to stay connected to the outside world. While you’re at it, you may want to check out the website of the National Council on Aging at www.ncoa.org/scams for ways to avoid being scammed while you’re in this tech environment. You should know to keep on guard for impersonation scams, tech support scams and romance scammers and others.
Here are some other examples of websites, services and other technologies that can help people age in place and help their loved ones provide care:
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Staying safe
- iGuard Stove: https://iguardfire.com/ stove turnoff device
- Eversafe: www.eversafe.com keeps track of finances, sending alerts when patterns change or bills aren’t paid.
- Alarm.com: https://alarm.com/wellness-independent-living integrates sensors and devices, including its camera, and uses artificial intelligence to sense differences that signify a risk. The company says it can report changes in activity levels, sleeping and eating patterns, bathroom frequency and medication adherence, as well as emergencies like falls or wandering out of the home.
Staying engaged
- EA virtual reality experience for caregivers:.www.embodiedlabs.com
- AARP site for learning technology and taking online classes: https://seniorplanet.org
- Classes given by older adults for older adults: www.getsetup.io
- Safe transportation: https://gogograndparent.com
- Assisted ride service: www.silverride.com
- Robotic pets: https://joyforall.com
- Robotic companion: https://elliq.com
- Live interactive virtual tours around the world: www.discover.live
- Live streaming interactive travel from home: https://wowzitude.com
Staying fit and healthy
- Spiro 100: www.spiro100.com
- Vitality Society: www.vitality-society.com
- Posit Science—brainHQ exercises: www.brainhq.com
Staying organized
- Everplans: www.everplans.com a digital tool that helps avoid document clutter
- PinnacleCare: https://pinnaclecare.com/ when receiving a serious medical diagnosis, use this site to find the right medical professionals and setting up appointments
- Wellthy: https://wellthy.com/ a resource for family caregivers to coordinate care
- Raymond James: www.raymondjames.com/commentary-and-insights/lifestyle-technology information on technology in retirement
Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger’s Retirement Report, our popular monthly periodical that covers key concerns of affluent older Americans who are retired or preparing for retirement. Subscribe for retirement advice that’s right on the money.
Related Content
-
Stocks Keep Climbing as Fed Meeting Nears: Stock Market TodayA stale inflation report and improving consumer sentiment did little to shift expectations for a rate cut next week.
-
Your End of Year Insurance Coverage Review ChecklistStop paying for insurance you don't need and close coverage gaps you didn't know about with this year-end insurance review.
-
Crypto Trends to Watch in 2026Cryptocurrency is still less than 20 years old, but it remains a fast-moving (and also maturing) market. Here are the crypto trends to watch for in 2026.
-
3 Ways to Stretch the 2026 Social Security COLA For Your BudgetThree steps retirees can take to stretch the Social Security COLA to fit their budgets.
-
Pickleball Injuries are Getting Out of Hand for Some AdultsAs more older adults take up pickleball, injuries are on the rise. Here's how you can lower your risk and still have a ball.
-
Are You Prepared to Live Longer? MIT AgeLab Answers QuestionsA new measure of longevity readiness indicates that for many Americans, the answer is no — and suggests what is needed to get on track.
-
Government Research Cuts Hit Older AdultsThe Trump administration has slashed funding for medical research, delaying some treatments and cures for health conditions affecting retirees.
-
4 Strategies for Older Adults to Cut Property TaxesBefore you settle your next property tax bill, make sure you're taking full advantage of these tax breaks for older homeowners across the US.
-
A Guide to Starting a Successful Business After 50Age can be an advantage for older entrepreneurs looking to extend their careers or supplement their income in retirement.
-
10 Things You Should Know About Buying a Car Today, Even if You've Bought BeforeIf buying a car is on your to-do list, and it's been a while since you went shopping for a new one, this guide will help avoid any nasty shocks in the showroom.
-
When Helping Mom and Dad Hurts Your WalletNew research shows how assisting an aging parent with expenses can strain your own finances.
