When we think of apps, we typically imagine millennials or even younger kids spending all day on their phones. Truly, it is astounding all that can be accomplished with the click of a button or by downloading an app on your phone or tablet. However, just because young people constitute the bulk of app use doesn’t mean there aren’t apps for seniors and the elderly, too. Technology is for everyone, and as the Baby Boomers and others age, it can assist greatly in the day-to-day.
For example, we’re all familiar with the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up devices,” right? Well, technology in the wearables space is changing, meaning the elderly can sport a trendy smartwatch or smart bracelet that has the alert feature already built in. Meetup apps aren’t only for millennials, either. In South Korea, there’s a trend called “daytime discos,” where seniors meet to dance with one another during the day. They are notified of the time and place of this meetup through an app.
Transportation apps are great ways for seniors to get around from one location to the next if driving is no longer an option for them. Uber and Lyft are viable choices, but in Singapore, particularly, the app GoGoGrandparent specializes in the transporting of seniors. Also in Singapore is the app Pillboxie, which helps the elderly keep track of their medications.
Elderly people often struggle with staying connected to one another, especially as the years wane on. Social media has its eye on this and is planning on specifically marketing to aging Baby Boomers so they can connect more easily with one another. Since many seniors already use Facebook, it should come as no surprise they will continue doing so as they get up there in years. Social media will have to adapt to this, which paves the way for exciting new startup ventures.
In the end, it’s important to embrace these technological opportunities that apps bring to make the lives of senior citizens easier. With this handful of apps already in use, there’s no telling what technology will come up with in the future.