Our Care - All of Houston! Technologies Houston Caregiver Agencies Are Using
There are a number of studies that show socializing with family and friends can have a positive impact on the health and longevity of seniors. One study performed in 2012 discovered that staying socially engaged was just as important as other healthy living habits when it came to healthy aging. The study involved 100 centenarians and was conducted by UnitedHealthcare.
However, some people don’t like to meet others in person. Thankfully, technology offers a number of solutions. Below are different ways Houston caregiver agencies are staying in touch with technology.
Video Chat/Social Media
Seniors can use social media to stay connected. Sharing thoughts and comments via Twitter and Facebook is a trend that is continuing to grow in the senior community. This is something that should be encouraged.
It’s a good idea to set up a Nucleus intercom system. It’s easy to use and it is a device that is senior-friendly. This device lets people video chat with anyone in the family, if they have their own device or if they have the app. All it takes is pressing one button for an older adult to get in touch with family.
Use Video Games
Using videos games can help seniors keep both their body and mind active. Video games are fun too. This is one of the reasons seniors should play them.
Furthermore, playing video games may improve vision. In one study, it showed that seniors with cataracts reported an improvement in their eyesight after they’ve played Call of Duty and other first-person shooting games. The seniors’ eyes strengthen because of rapid eye movement and because the focus was required. A Houston caregiver should add games to their clients weekly or daily routine.
Use Apps For Tracking Medication
A key aspect of caregiving is allowing seniors to live independently, and part of maintaining independence is taking medications when they’re supposed to be taken. Caregivers should consider using an app that can help seniors track medications. Seniors will love using such an app.
However, finding the right app isn’t that easy. This is because there are so many other there. The good news is this task doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Over 270 medication tracking apps were looked at by the University of Sydney. They narrow down their list.
Medisafe Pill Reminder & Medication Tracker made the list. So did Alar Meds. The other two that made it to the top included MedicineList+ and My Heart My Life.
Are you a Houston caregiver and are you thinking of using technology because if you are, then consider some of the technology discussed above. Maybe you’re already using technology. If you are, then what are you using and what do you recommend using because we would love to know more about them.
For more insight, visit our blog. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or contact us today!
With home care, the average rate per hour all across Texas stands at $19. The areas with the most affordable home care include Waco, Brownsville, McAllen, and Laredo, where the hourly cost ranges from $15 to $16.50. The most expensive areas include Wichita Falls, Austin/Round Rock, Odessa, and Midland where the hourly cost ranges between $20.50 and $25. For those who need a higher level of care, home health care is also available, and typically adds about $0.50 to $1 an hour to the normal rates.
People with assets and income that exceed these limits may still be eligible for the Medicaid program in Texas. A Medicaid planning professional can work with you to find a way to allocate the monthly income in excess of the limit into income trusts. Moreover, the financial assets that exceed the limit may be converted into exempt assets in some cases. If you are an individual near the financial limits, consulting a Medicaid planning professional before applying is highly recommended, to make sure that you have the best chance of being accepted into Medicaid.
