When you think about the technological advancements in the last 50 years, it’s difficult to imagine life as many of us knew it. The microwave. The computer. The cell phone. None of these items we use daily were even on our radar in 1962 … unless, of course, you were “George Jetson.”

The advancing technology is good news for older adults who may need a little assistance to maintain their vibrant, independent lives -- especially when adult children often live hours away.

Can’t Read Your Prescription Bottles?

You are not alone! ScripTalk Station provides those who cannot read the information on their prescriptions a safe and easy way to manage their personal healthcare. To activate, press a button and place the special Talking Label over the reader.  A pleasant, natural sounding voice speaks all the information printed on the label, including patient name, drug name with dosage and directions, warnings, pharmacy information, doctor name, prescription number with date, and more.

Features:

• Lightweight and portable
• Works with any prescription
• Natural voice
• One touch operation
• Read as many times as needed
• Adjustable volume
• Earphone connection for privacy
• Multiple languages available

ScriptTalk Station is the only audible prescription reading device to meet all federal requirements listed under the Federal Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA).

For more information on how you can participate and issue your prescriptions with a ScripTalk label, or for a list of participating pharmacies, contact En-Vision America, Inc.

For more information about other assistive technology, contact INDATA at Easter Seals Crossroads, 317-466-2013 or 888-466-1314 or email them at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Wired House

Despite the growing number of continuing care retirement communities and living options for the over-60 set, the number of seniors who want to remain in their own homes for as long as possible is estimated to be around 85 percent.

Meanwhile, today’s American family no longer resides in the same town; adult children often live hours away which makes lending a helping hand to one’s parents very difficult. The frustrations of these long-distance parent-adult-child relationships often result in tearful conversations and the selling of the family homestead.

Technology is sparing some of this anguish. There are several products available that extend the years a senior may remain independent in their homes.

The “wired home” has been the subject of several news reports and articles, including a fabulous series on NPR. A wired home may include anything from medical alert services (you can just push a button to call for help in an emergency) to motion sensors that monitor movement around the house and notify either a service or relative if anything is out of the ordinary.

MORE INFO: Article by University of Indianapolis Center for Aging and Community