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Resources and Advice

Helping you and your loved ones live well in later life

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Technology

Technology can be a valuable resource to help older adults stay connected, active, and healthy. Mobile phones, voice assistants, and personal alarms are useful tools for you or your elderly loved ones keeping their independence.

Spotlight on Carers report

Our "Spotlight on Carers" report looks at the issues that millions of unpaid carers face, including those who feel trapped caring for elderly parents in the UK. One in two adults feel that they will have no choice but to care for their elderly parents when they become too frail, and many raised concerns about access to care options in their area.

The report explores attitudes towards caring for elderly parents and the barriers that adults in the sandwich generation face to accessing care support for their frail relatives..

Digital switchover

BT will replace analogue phone lines with digital ones by 2025. Our personal alarm customers will be supported during and after the switchover with our tested product range and digital alarms that don't require a phone line. Read our articles and guides for more information.

More on digital switchover

Assistive technology

Assistive technology devices can help elderly maintain independence and participate in activities they enjoy, despite health concerns. They can restore peace of mind for family members.

More on assistive technology

Telecare alarms

Explore more about telecare alarms, their uses and how they can support older adults to live independently and have peace of mind.

More on telecare alarms

How we can help

The features available with panic buttons for the elderly can vary, so it's important to find the right kind of personal alarm service for your needs, whether it's for yourself or a loved one.

Alarms for an active lifestyle

Personal alarms for the home and out-and-about

Have the freedom to maintain an active lifestyle, with reassurance help is available wherever you are.

An Out-and-About Personal Alarm will also work in your home so you can get help from Taking Care's Emergency Resolution Team any time of the day or night.

Taking Care Anywhere pendant

Taking Care Anywhere
Elderly personal alarm watch

Personal Alarm Watch
GPS alarm for elderly

Classic GPS Alarm

Compare out-and-about alarms

Not sure which personal alarm to choose?

Call 0800 085 7371, Monday – Friday, 8am - 6pm and Saturday, 9am – 5pm, to speak with a Taking Care Sales Advisor.

Elderly care experts answer biggest questions about technology

Find answers to common questions about how the use of technology can support independent living. Discover services that enhance safety to help and improve the lives of older adults.

How has technology helped the elderly?

The elderly have benefited from technology in several ways, including remote healthcare monitoring, social connectivity, mobility assistive devices, memory aids, and voice-activated technology for daily tasks.

What technology do the elderly use?

Many older adults utilise a variety of technological tools, including smartphones, tablets, computers, medical alert systems, fitness devices, hearing aids, and assistive devices customised to their individual requirements.

What are the struggles of the elderly with technology?

Older people may have difficulty with technology because they are unfamiliar with it, the interfaces can be complicated, and they may have physical limitations. Additionally, a lack of digital literacy and fear of making mistakes can also be obstacles.

What innovations could help people who are elderly?

Technological advancements such as health trackers worn on the body, home devices that can be controlled by voice, smart-home monitoring devices, cognitive training using virtual reality, medicine reminders, pill dispensers and personal assistants can provide considerable help to the elderly.

How can smart heating controls benefit the elderly?

Increasing energy costs have been a concern, so installing smart heating controls for your elderly loved ones could be quite helpful as this will ensure that their house is not heated when it isn't needed.
Smart heating devices can often be attached to existing heating systems, and a smartphone or tablet app can be used to control them, allowing them to adjust the temperature. Moreover, it has the potential to save money by only heating the house or specific rooms when necessary.

How can fitness trackers and other health tech support older adults?

As people age, they may experience aches, pains, and medical conditions that make them less active than before.

However, research shows that regular gentle exercise can significantly benefit older adults. The NHS also recommends it, as it can prevent severe medical conditions and improve their quality of life.

Fitness trackers or smart watches (such as our alarm watch for the elderly) can be used to track physical activity and set realistic daily targets, promoting better health in both body and mind. Exercise is known to improve strength, balance, and flexibility, which are essential factors as we age.

With these devices, activities such as getting up to make tea, light housework, or going for a walk can be monitored to ensure that daily targets are met.

What should you look for when choosing a mobile phone for an older adult?

When choosing a mobile phone for an older adult, prioritise simplicity and ease of use—choosing a mobile phone with large, easy-to-read buttons, a clear interface, and adjustable font sizes could help make it easier for your elderly relatives.

Also, ensure that the phone has a long-lasting battery life and is durable. If possible, consider models with optional assistance or family monitoring features for added peace of mind.

Depending on the needs of your elderly loved ones, the most basic big button phone we recommend would be the Artfone C1 or the Alcatel 20.03. For the more tech savvy, we recommend a senior-friendly smart phone or a clever smart watch or personal alarm watch that includes mobile calling and heart rate monitoring. Other older adults may prefer a personal alarm rather than relying on a mobile phone.