When it comes to technology, genius inventors probably need to talk to seniors before trotting out high-concept, high-tech products for them. Or so the Japanese are finding out, according to a Reuters news release.
A pale green robot that talks, sings, and plays trivia to help seniors stay mentally agile is less popular than stuffed animals that do none of the above but offer some creature comfort.
It shouldn’t be a surprise. Harry Harlow, famed Wisconsin researcher, found out years ago that like people, Rhesus monkeys preferred to be “nurtured” by padded surrogates than wire ones.
What most seniors predictably want technology for is making their lives easier. That means big buttons, better audio, and physical adaptability: simpler phones and tools, adjustable countertops.
Two high-tech innovations that show promise are an electric tea kettle with a radio transmitter and a spoon with a built in stabilizer. The tea kettle sends e-mail to the family, letting them know whether Mom has made tea that day. The spoon compensates for shaking hands.
High tech is great, but it won’t ever replace the need for high touch--the voice and hands of real-life caregivers.
What technology do you know that improves the lives of seniors? What would you like to see?
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