The Amazon Echo is showing up in more homes every day. Since it responds to voice, it is a great addition to a seniors’ home as it does not require a screen or any buttons to mess with and confuse people. Below find some ideas on how this technology can help you and your loved one. Alexa is always updating her still set, keep up with all the new she can do here.
Alexa, what is the date? Alexa is very helpful in providing simple information on date, time, weather, etc.
Alexa, remind me to take my medication at 3pm: Alexa can remind your loved one when to take their medicine, take a drink water, wake up, use the restroom, be ready by 5pm on Friday to go to an event, etc. Several reminders can be set for any reason.
Alexa, remember I put my keys in my dresser drawer: Asking Alexa to remember where things are will alleviate many misplacements of items.
Alexa, put buy new batteries on my to-do list: Create a daily to do list for your loved one to keep them on task.
Alexa, what time does Olive Garden open? Needing to know when a business is opened or closed? Alexa can help.
Alexa, play classical music: Whatever type of music your loved one enjoys, ask Alexa to play it. Also, try asking her to play a certain artist or music similar to a favorite artist to change things up a bit.
Alexa, what year did the movie “The Wizard of Oz” come out: She’s all about the trivia!
Alexa, tell me a joke: She’s got a great sense of humor!
Alexa, flatter me:Just try it J
Alexa, play my messages: Messages can be sent between Echo devices. There is a blue light at the top of the device that lets people know when there is a message ready to play.
Alexa, Ask My Buddy: This is a free to enable service that allows a loved one to alert anyone in their personal network if they need help. Also good for just checking in to let everyone know they are okay.
Alexa, call 911: This is important, and does require additional set up. See here.
Finally, Alexa is quite patient. If your loved one experiences memory issues and is prone to asking the same question again and again, this does not wear down Alexa. She is fine with answering the same question over and over again, no matter how many times she is asked.
