Seniortech Bigkeys Keyboards Arthritis, Reduced

SeniorTech

BigKeys Keyboards

Arthritis, reduced mobility, and diminished vision are three of the main physiological reasons why seniors find computers frustrating. While most computer operating systems allow for large fonts and screen icons, the keyboard remains too troublesome to use for many older adults. The BigKeys company provides an affordable solution for seniors: a series of keyboards that boast large (one-inch square) sized keys. In addition to the standard QWERTY keyboard, BigKeys offers an ABC type pad too. Some BigKeys models are color-coded for convenience. All BigKeys keyboards are the same size as a standard keyboard, too.

The difference with BigKeys is the elimination of hotkeys (like F1) and other miscellaneous keys that most seniors would not need to use for activities like checking email, performing Web research, or writing their memoirs. Yet all punctuation keys are present. Because BigKeys products use a USB connection, setup is simple. The BigKeys company sells additional accessories such as adaptors for seniors who have older computers. An older adult will not need to configure an operating system to begin typing without pain or worry.

There are a few different types of BigKeys keyboards: standard QWERTY and ABC, both in solid color or multicolored versions. Yet the pricing is simple: each keyboard is $159. The keyboards can be ordered online at the BigKeys Website at: http://www.bigkeys.com/default.asp. Alternatively, some brick-and-mortar stores sell BigKeys products. A list can be found on the BigKeys Website at: http://www.bigkeys.com/where.asp. Although simple technology, BigKeys keyboards can help seniors stay connected and take advantage of all the Internet and software applications have to offer.

Med-Time XL e-pill Automatic Pill Dispenser

Some automatic pill dispensers cost $800. For example, the Oregon Health and Science University is in the process of designing a fancy pill dispenser with location sensors, and call a caregiver if a dose has been missed. The e-pill Automatic Pill Dispenser only costs $15 and has similar features. It might not be able to call a caregiver or determine whether the user is at the movies vs. At home, but the produce is affordable and helps save lives by alarming the user to take medications at the proper time.

Manufactured by the American Medical Alert Corporation, the Med-Time XL makes the proper dose of the medication available at the right time of day. Pills are rotated into position according to the automatic timer. Up to 28 medication times per day may be programmed. Only the correct dosage of the right medication is made available at any given time. The user cannot access any other pills than the ones being dispensed. Thus, seniors who have become addicted to pharmaceuticals and seniors who forget to take their medicine both benefit from having an automated pill dispenser. Doctors or nurses can pre-load the pillbox if necessary. The alarm ceases after the pillbox is turned upside-down.

An early dose feature is available, and there is an opportunity for seniors to program the device to take multiple medications at different times of day. The pill dispenser locks with a key for convenience and safety. Available on the e-pill Website at: http://www.epill.com/medtime.html, the Med-Time XL Automatic Pill Dispenser might not be the only such product on the market, but it is one of the most affordable and easy to use.

Posit's InSight Software

WiiFit is a product marketed to the general public that can also be used by seniors to stay fit and healthy. Because many seniors are sedentary and do not get enough exercise, the introduction of fitness technology like Wii into the household can be a boon for overall health and well being. Just as WiiFit can help seniors stay active during their golden years, there are also technologies that are designed specifically so that seniors maintain their brain fitness.

While a plethora of programs can help older adults have fun, few offer brain exercises specifically designed to stave off dementia and diminished cognitive capacity. Introduce InSight, a software suite specifically designed for brain fitness. Like WiiFit, InSight is not necessarily limited to older adults as end users.