How Technology is Transforming Lives for Seniors with Limited Mobility

Impact of technology on lives of seniors with limited mobility
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Written and edited by: Author
Reviewed by: Reviewer
Medically reviewed by: Medical Reviewer

It can be very challenging for seniors with limited mobility to cope even with simple daily things. There are different types of issues people are facing, such as physical and mental.

The right assistance depends on the needs. The great thing is that there are new technologies that can assist and make lives much easier for those suffering from some condition. For example, a new model of power wheelchair you can check on marcsmobility.com.

Limited mobility is especially a serious problem. There are seniors with outstanding skills who are suffering only because they don’t have the right assistance that will help them move and travel. Here are some new technologies that will soon change that.

Wheelchair you can control with eyes

Even though having a modern type of wheelchair is great by itself, automation with the most recent software can improve it even more. There’s no need to feel limited anymore. In combination with the electric engine, this innovation can completely change the lives of elderly people.

Moreover, the biggest advantage is for those with serious health conditions where both legs and hands are disabled or limited. This type of technology works in combination with sensors and cameras integrated into the wheelchair and connected to the person by a smart device.

There are many other options that will make this solution even better. For example, with the combination of AI and Augmented Reality, along with the most recent hardware and software, you can quite easily control where you will move and at what speed.

3D printed prosthetics

Mobility aids for elderly

There are different models already available. Some of them can provide support, but we also have to mention the high-tech versions that are connected to the body and nervous system. A prosthetic hand, as example, can actually hold things, and a person can easily control it.

Furthermore, we expect to see much more in the future. Experts are working on models that will connect to the nervous system, and represent a complete replacement.

Some areas are even more advanced. While we are only making baby steps, they could become a reality soon. The best example is exoskeletons. These can be controlled by various methods, such as brain signals, muscle signals, or voice commands.

For example, a tetraplegic man was able to move all four of his paralyzed limbs with the help of an exoskeleton suit controlled by his thoughts.

Devices you can control with speech

Seniors and mobility devices

The simple solution for this method is to use a mobile phone or a smartwatch. The process is quite simple as well. Some of the systems that you can control with it are your oven, elevator, heating, air-conditioning, lights, cameras, and much more.

Moreover, there are possible upgrades for the disabled that will connect even more things and allow their control simply by speech. For example, the IoT is expected to add more to this area.

Vehicles with autopilot

The most popular model in the autopilot category is Tesla. Also, a lot of other brands are presenting their new models with the same feature. We expect that most cars will have it in a decade or two.

Convenience is the main benefit for a regular driver, but this technology is a breakthrough for those with limited mobility since they will become less dependent on additional assistance from other people.

We all have to pay more attention…

Adaptive solutions for older adults

While all these options are great, the majority of people will also have to pay more attention and focus on providing proper assistance. For example, the construction of buildings with special areas for the elderly so they can use all facilities without any issues.

A friendly environment is crucial as well because it will motivate elderly people with disabilities to get the most from their skills and efforts.

All in all…

The proper selection depends on the level of disability. For example, those with impaired legs can easily solve the problem by using new models of wheelchairs with batteries, or even with eye-control assistance. You can also drive a car only by setting the destination.

It is also important for public institutions and organizations to pay more attention and start sharing more funds to help elderly people with disabilities get the right assistive equipment. You should be aware that some solutions we mentioned here can be very expensive, especially when it comes to cars with advanced prosthetics.

The biggest breakthrough is related to prosthetics that are connected to the tissue and nerves. This is one step from making a complete replacement and recovering the disability completely.

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