There’s a stereotype that older people can’t deal with technology and don’t like it. Of course, this has no basis in reality. A research study commissioned by NBN found that 93% of Australian seniors access the internet in some way every day.
While most applications available for downloads in smartphones are centred around gaming, social media and photography, there are a few that can add real value to your life, especially if you’re currently a resident in an aged care home, where time is in abundance. Developers have now designed apps that can make your life as a senior citizen easier. Here’s your guide to 10 of the best apps currently available.
- MyFitnessPal
Manage your health with MyFitnessPal, available for download on both Google Play and iTunes. The app has a diverse range of features and tools that allow you to check the nutritional information of food items, help in weight management and track exercise.
- Instant Heart Rate
Instant Heart Rate is an award-winning app providing accurate heart rate readings via smartphone. It’s so accurate; it’s endorsed by doctors, EMTs, and other industry experts.
- My Pain Diary
To help with your aged care pain management journey, we recommend using My Pain Diary. This is an app where you can track and monitor chronic pain (migraines and headaches) and create detailed reports on symptoms and triggers.
- Headspace
Symptoms of loneliness and depression are not uncommon for residents, especially if they have lost a spouse. This app provides proven mindfulness and meditation techniques that will establish a mental health routine to improve your ‘headspace’.
- Lumosity
Lumosity is a mind-boosting app used by millions of users around the world. The app features 50 cognitive games that help improve memory, attention and problem-solving.
- Relax Melodies
If you struggle to sleep, Relax Melodies can help you through playing soothing music. Choose from 52 ambient sounds and music options to help you sleep or meditate.
- Spotify
One of the most popular apps of all time, and with good reason. Play almost any song from the past several decades to tune out or to establish a vibrant atmosphere in your room.
- CamFind
This app allows you to conduct online searches without any typing needed. Just send an image to receive more information, even local shopping searches made possible.
- BeSpecular
By taking a photo of a text they need help with and submitting it via the app, a visually impaired person can get a text message read aloud for them with the required information.
- TrackMySPEND
A free app from the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) that will help you set and track your spending goals so you can manage your finances more efficiently.
Of course, there are many more apps that are aimed at helping seniors make their lives more comfortable, and all you need to do to benefit is download it! Want more information about what life is like for an aged care resident? Get in contact with us.
