Remote home access and video tools that monitor who’s coming and going from a home in a secure way, such as the Ring Video Doorbell, can help a client’s family ensure the client’s home is safe and secure even when nobody is there with them.

How will anyone know if the client falls and can’t reach the phone to call for help? Remote or wearable sensors, like the MyNotifi by Medhab or UnaliWear’s Kanega watch can detect or even predict when a fall or other health issue may be imminent.

On a larger scale, there are also all-inclusive integrated sensor systems that can monitor an entire house for falls or other issues, like Alarm.com’s Wellness system.

Often, failure to keep up with mundane tasks can land a client in a facility. Excessively heating the house and forgetting to manage the thermostat is a very common problem. Digital thermostats, like Nest’s Learning Thermostats, can efficiently manage heating and cooling in a home without the need for daily management.

Keeping fresh food in the house is another common problem. “Smart” refrigerators, such as the Samsung Family Hub, can keep track of food storage and even automatically order groceries when needed.

How can a family be sure their loved one is taking all of the required medications consistently and at the correct times? “Smart” pill dispensers, like the Medminder, can help a user keep track of necessary medications with reminders and assistance.

Though it may seem trifling, the cost to an elderly client on a fixed income of forgetting to turn off lights when leaving a room can add up very quickly. Remote light switches and electricity management tools, like the Wemo Light Switch, can efficiently and effectively control when lights are on or off.

How can a client bring all of these technologies together in a simple way? I often recommend that families start with a smart system or hub. Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home are the two most prominent offerings in this area. They’re primarily voice-activated, and they’re easy and intuitive to use for even those who aren’t technologically inclined. Because they’re backed by two of the most powerful tech companies on earth—Amazon and Google—they’ll likely stand the test of time.