Is Tech Really Helping or Hurting Elder Care? Let’s Talk.
Hey everyone, Fidelity here.
So, something’s been on my mind lately and I’d love to hear what others think about it too. With all the new gadgets, apps, and “smart” elder care solutions coming out every other day, I can’t help but wonder… Is all this technology really making caregiving easier or just more overwhelming?
Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate innovation. I’ve used medication reminder apps, fall-detection watches, and even tried setting up a voice assistant to help my mum feel a bit more independent. Some of it is genuinely helpful like when I get alerts if she misses a dose or when I can check in through a video call without rushing home.
But at the same time?
There are days when managing all the devices, passwords, updates, and “malfunctions” feels like a full-time job on its own. Sometimes I miss the simplicity of a paper calendar and a phone call.
And what about the human connection? I’ve noticed that some people start to rely more on tech and less on conversation, presence, or even touch. I’m all for tools that support care—but I worry we might be losing some of the heart in caregiving by replacing it with hardware.
So I wanted to ask:
- Are you using any elder care technology right now?
- What’s actually working and what’s just hype?
- Have you found a balance between digital tools and human care?
- Do you think tech is enhancing or complicating the caregiving experience?
I really want to learn from others navigating this same space. What are your wins, frustrations, or surprises when it comes to using tech in caregiving?
Looking forward to your thoughts. Let’s unpack this together.
Fidelity
Hello Fidelity,
Thank you for opening up such an important and timely conversation. I could relate to everything you shared. Like you, I’ve tried several elder care technologies—reminder apps, smart speakers, even a fall-alert pendant for my aunt. Some of them have definitely added peace of mind, especially when I can’t be physically present. But yes, managing all the updates, troubleshooting glitches, or remembering which app does what? It gets exhausting.
What really resonated with me was your point about human connection. No matter how advanced the tech, it can never replace a warm voice, a hand held, or the comfort of simply being there. I’ve found that the best balance is using tech as a support, not a substitute. For example, I use tools to help with logistics—like tracking meds or appointments—but I try to stay present for the emotional parts, like conversations, listening, and shared moments that don’t need a screen.
In short, I think tech can absolutely enhance caregiving, but only when it complements—not replaces—the heart of what we do. And yes, some days I just go back to a paper notebook, and it feels like a breath of fresh air!
Thanks again for sparking such a rich dialogue. I’m looking forward to hearing how others are managing this too.
Warmly,
Sophia
Hi Fidelity,
Thank you for starting this conversation honestly, I felt like you were reading my mind. I’ve also tried a handful of elder care tech tools for my mum. Some things, like the medication reminder app and a smart plug for her kettle, have been a real blessing. But I can’t even count how many hours I’ve spent trying to fix glitches, remember logins, or explain to her (for the third time in a day) why the voice assistant won’t “listen” today.
What really hit home for me is what you said about losing the heart in caregiving. I’ve noticed that too. It’s tempting to lean on devices when I’m tired or stretched thin, but nothing replaces sitting down next to her, holding her hand, or just being there to laugh or talk.
These tools are great when they work, but I try to see them as helpers not the main thing. And honestly, some days I toss the tech aside and just go back to a sticky note on the fridge. That feels more like us.
Thanks again for opening up this topic it’s so important. Looking forward to learning from others here too.
Warmly,
Catherine