The first heatwave of the season has a habit of exposing small gaps that were easy to overlook during the cooler months. The air conditioner may not have been used since last summer. The client may no longer be able to read the buttons on the remote. Their medicines, mobility or support arrangements may have … read more
After a fall or near fall, an older adult may become more careful. They might use the handrail, slow down on uneven ground or ask someone to accompany them on unfamiliar routes. A certain amount of caution can be helpful. It becomes a concern when fear begins deciding where the person goes, how much they … read more
You notice that your parent has become less steady on the stairs. They have missed a few doses of medication, left the stove on or stopped driving at night because their vision is not as clear as it once was. You want to help, but every attempt to discuss safety ends the same way: “I’m … read more
Assistive technology is often compared by looking at features. Does the device have GPS? Automatic fall detection? Voice activation? Remote monitoring? A mobile app? Medication reminders? Multiple contact options? These features may all have value. However, a long list of capabilities does not necessarily make a product more suitable for the person who will use … read more
Spring is a natural time to open the windows, clear out clutter and catch up on jobs that may have been put off during winter. It is also a good opportunity to look around the home for small safety problems that have gradually become part of the surroundings. A loose mat, dim hallway or uneven … read more
Winter can be an isolating time for older people living alone. Cold weather, rain and shorter daylight hours may make it harder to attend social activities, visit friends or complete everyday errands. Family members may also assume an older relative is staying safely at home without realising how little contact they have had with other … read more
A personal alarm sits unopened on the kitchen bench. An emergency watch stays in its box. A pendant is tucked away in a drawer after only a few days of use. For many Occupational Therapists, these situations are familiar. Despite careful assessments and well-considered recommendations, some clients choose not to use the very devices designed … read more
Technology can make everyday life easier, safer and more connected. It can help an older person speak with family, remember appointments, manage daily tasks or call for assistance during an emergency. But more features do not always mean a better experience. A device may look impressive in a demonstration but become frustrating once it is … read more
Becoming a caregiver is one of life’s biggest transitions—and one of its most meaningful. Many people don’t expect to become caregivers overnight. It often begins with small acts of support: helping with grocery shopping, driving to medical appointments, or checking in more frequently. Over time, those small responsibilities can grow into a larger caregiving role. … read more