Technology can support, but not substitute, a human caregiver

It seems obvious. Nobody suddenly wakes up and decides that they want to leave their at-risk kupuna at home alone without supervision. No, that happens subtly over time (as can unrecognized cognitive decline) and many families end up taking risks that they are not even aware of until there is an incident.

Alarms, proximity sensors, smart speakers, smart displays, automatic stove shut-offs, vital signs monitors, wearables, video monitors, video monitors with food dispensers: there are new technologies and gadgets developed every day that can make communication with others very convenient (especially during a pandemic), alert families if a vital sign reading is off, and support a kupuna's stay at home.

But at this point technology is not an adequate replacement for human companionship, redirection, and hands-on assistance. So if you are considering technology to take on those responsibilities, it's time to start looking for a human touch.

That doesn't mean moving into a care facility immediately, and options such as Adult Day Care can provide a safe environment while a kupuna can return home to family at night.

If you’re unsure what your kupuna needs, take our anonymous quiz to determine if it's time to consider Adult Day Care, Home Care, or even a Care Home.