August 21st is Senior Citizen’s Day. Think about setting up a voice activation technology unit in the home of a senior you love!
Voice activation technology has become increasingly popular since Amazon’s release of the Echo. The Amazon Echo device line is powered by a digital assistant, who answers to the name Alexa. There are also other digital personal assistants like Apple’s Siri and Microsoft’s Cortana. Voice activation technology basically works like this: inside the device there is a small computer that can carry out simple tasks like turning on lights or playing music, but the real intelligence of the device is the host company’s cloud-computing service. This allows the device to tap into the internet.
The future of voice activation technology is expansive, including the many implications on the lives of seniors, especially those who struggle with mobility and sight difficulties. Voice activation technology can help people do many tasks, from confirming events on their calendar to ensuring they take medicine on time. Senior living communities are testing the waters with voice activation technology to improve safety and quality of life for residents.
For adults with vision problems, voice activation technology can read news and weather updates. Also, Amazon’s Alexa has the capability to read books, text messages and emails to users. Alexa can even help craft a written response through voice commands. By using voice activation technology those with sight restraints do not have to rely solely on a caretaker to help them through daily activities.
Some applications provide limited first aid and emergency assistance, like sending an alert to 911 or a family member if they fall. Through the hands free use of intelligent digital assistants, one can find peace of mind knowing if there is an emergency involving an adult that is alone, they can call out for help.
So, voice activation technology is not just for millennials, it has become increasingly used by all age groups and can be especially helpful to seniors. As applications and new uses for voice activation technology expand and intelligent digital assistants get smarter, the benefits for seniors will only improve.