You may have heard the term “AI” (short for artificial intelligence) on the news. It sounds complicated, but many AI tools are actually simple to use and can make daily life easier, safer, and less lonely. This sheet explains some of the most useful ones in plain language.
We endeavour to support our clients in any way possible, for further assistance feel free to contact us on 01926 624432, visit our web site at wenmanhealthcare.co.uk or email us at info@wenmanhealthcare.co.uk.
1. Staying Safe at Home
- Fall alert devices: Worn as a watch or pendant, these can sense a fall and call for help automatically, even if you can’t press a button.
- Home sensors: Small devices placed around the house can notice if something seems wrong — like no movement for a long time — and alert a family member.
- Medicine reminders: Some devices or apps will remind you when it’s time to take your medicine, and let a family member know if a dose is missed.
2. Staying Connected
- Companion devices: Friendly robots or speakers can chat with you, suggest activities, and check in on how you’re feeling.
- Video calling made easy: Voice assistants (like Alexa or Google Home) let you call a loved one just by speaking — no dialing needed.
- Voice assistants: You can ask them the weather, the news, or to play your favourite music, just by talking out loud.
3. Everyday Help
- Smart speakers: Ask them to turn on lights, set timers, or make reminders — helpful if standing up or reaching a switch is difficult.
- Reading and writing help: Apps can read text out loud, or turn your spoken words into text, which is useful for emails or letters.
- Getting around: Apps can give simple step-by-step walking or bus directions, and some can describe surroundings for those with low vision.
4. Health Support
- Wearable trackers: Watches or bands can monitor your heart rate and steps, and flag anything unusual to you or your doctor.
- Telehealth: You can speak to a doctor by video call from home, without needing to travel.
A Few Friendly Tips
- Start with one device at a time — you don’t need to learn everything at once.
- Ask a family member, friend, or library staff to help you set things up the first time.
- These tools are there to support you, not replace visits and calls from people who care about you.
- It’s always OK to say no to a device if it doesn’t feel right for you.
Where to Get Help
If you’d like to try any of these tools, a good first step is to ask your family, your doctor’s office, or your local library — many offer free help getting started with new technology. If you are ever concerned about the impact on your healthcare don’t forget to check with your healthcare professionals.