The aging process is inevitable, and some people are more susceptible to declines in health than others. However, everyone can take certain steps to maintain better health as they age—and many people are doing it with the help of technology.
New medical technology has revolutionized doctors’ offices and hospitals for well over a century, and it has also made its way into people’s homes and everyday lives.
For many people, technology has given them greater insight into their health than they ever thought possible. While no tech is a substitute for having a good relationship with a doctor, it can promote good habits and help people place a greater emphasis on becoming—and staying—healthy well into their golden years.
Smartphones Are Leading the Way
For the aging population, smart devices can come in handy when it comes to tracking health. By themselves, smartphones can track the number of steps walked in a way, calories and types of food consumed, sleep length and quality, and more.
Wearable add-ons, such as watches and fitness trackers, can provide even more information. They can measure heart rate, heart rhythm, blood oxygen level and even detect falls. In addition, they can provide reminders to take medications and serve as digital medical IDs, giving first responders and emergency room doctors and nurses vital information such as age, blood type, allergies, medications and more.
Computers, Tablets and Phones Make Virtual Visits Possible
One of the most important aspects of healthy aging is being in close communication with your doctor — especially if you have certain risk factors or have been diagnosed with a chronic condition. However, getting out to see your doctor in person isn’t always easy or viable.
During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many doctor’s offices began offering video visits via computer, tablet or smartphone. These visits have become more and more commonplace, and they can make it easier for older adults to check in with their doctors when making it to their offices is either impossible, inconvenient or potentially dangerous due to illness.
Tried and True Methods are Still Essential for Many Adults
Technology doesn’t have to be the latest and greatest to be helpful. High blood pressure is an extremely common health problem, especially among older adults. Having a blood pressure monitor at home can help you track your blood pressure between checkups. Blood glucose monitors are also essential devices for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
