Baby Boomers Turn To New Type Of Remote Control

Most of us are actively living in areas nowhere near our parents.   It’s come to our attention that there needs to be some type of surveillance from afar.  Not to be sneaky, but as a way of showing our concern for our parental well being.

Some seniors feel they are doing very well on their own and are engaging with a wide social circle that may include a girlfriend or boyfriend.  Currently, there is technology that can help boomers that is a far cry from wearing a necklace with an alarm button!

Active baby boomer parents may initially resist any intrusion into their private lives, particularly if they are dating.  It appears that the positive outcomes could eventually persuade them of the benefits of using a system

Susan Shelenbarger writes in her column for the Wall Street Journal that nationally, a few thousand customers are using some type of  monitoring system.

What Type To Use?

The most frequently used systems use wireless motion or contact sensors on doorways,  windows, walls, ceilings, cabinets, appliances and beds.  For example, if a parent enters a bathroom and doesn’t leave, the kids will be contacted.  This type of shadowing makes the boomer child feel more at ease that they are doing their best to care for an elderly parent.

Some types of systems don’t rest well with senior parents.  Video cameras are the worst received.  They feel they are intrusive and are positioned in their minds as a spying contraption.  The less invasive the better and if it helps prolong their being able to stay in their home- all the better.

Change is always a tough transition, but once a senior parent realizes that there is somebody who will know whether they woke up in the morning or not, there is a sense of reassurance.

The cost of these systems can range from $99 to several thousand dollars for installation.  Additionally, there is a month.y fee that ranges from $35-$150.

The Future 

Shellemberger reports that more “elaborate technology” is on the way   What does this mean for the consumer?  Researchers in Oregon are developing systems that track  the changes in senior parents; both physical and cognitive abilities.   They are doing this  by lining up wall sensors to track the progression of walking speed and typing out kiosks to engage them in games.  These games may predict dementia.

How do you feel using a remote device to track your parent(s)?