Tech gadgets that can reduce the burden of being a constant caregiver

April 18, 2012 at 8:09 a.m.


Being a constant caregiver can not only wear on a person's psychology, but it can also be detrimental to your physical health. People who are family caregivers often inadvertently place their own health in jeopardy for the sake of an ill or disabled family member. But there are a number of high-tech caregiver tools on the market these days that can make the job of caring for an ill spouse or parent much easier than ever before. Here's a rundown on a few of those caregiver gadgets, and how they'll help make your important job easier on you and your loved one.

Emergency alert systems -- If you're familiar with the old "I've fallen and I can't get up" commercials from a few years back, then you're familiar with what emergency alert systems are. These usually come in the form of pendants and bracelets that are worn and that can be set off to notify 911 or an operator that there's help needed. Although it'll be necessary to pay for a monthly subscription to have this type of service, it's one of those high-tech caregiver tools that can literally be a lifesaver. It's also something that can save you from having to be around 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Electronic pill dispenser -- The fact is, you can't be around every waking second to ensure that the family member you're caring for isn't getting into accidental trouble, such as the kind that can occur when they forget to take their medication. Or when they take it twice, having forgotten if they already took it earlier in the day. An electronic pill dispenser is an invaluable caregiver gadget that can be programmed to dispense medications at certain times of the day, and serve as "one less thing to worry about" for the round the clock caregiver.

Bathroom handles for tubs and toilets -- Sometimes, the elderly or ill just need a little help when using the bathroom. By installing handles in bathtubs, showers and near toilets they can continue to remain independent when taking care of intimate business, leaving you a few extra minutes in the day to relax and not worry.

Additional around the house devices -- Sometimes, simple things like nightlights make it possible for sick or elderly people to be able to move about the house without assistance, whereas without them you'd be called upon to help them find the bathroom in a dark home in the middle of the night. There are also a variety of kitchen aids like non-slide place mats and easy grip utensils that can enable them to cook for themselves and feed themselves, whereas without them you're forced to be in the position of both cook and feeder.

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