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by KAreN rIce you AT your beST As they've done with numerous trends throughout their lives, the Baby Boom generation, now retiring at a rate of 10,000 people per day, is changing the way seniors live and age. Consider this: • In 2010, there were seven potential caregivers for every person in the high- risk 80+ years. • By 2050, there will be only three potential caregivers for every senior in need of care. Societal changes are to blame for some of this shortage. One in three Baby Boomers is currently unmarried, and the percentage of frail elderly who are childless is projected to rise 18% by 2030. But the good news is that Baby Boomers may age and live a little differently. Seniors now have the benefit of better health care and are living longer. They also have more residential options available to them. They can remain home with care, or they can choose an independent or assisted living community. Nursing homes are no longer the only option for aging seniors. New technology is also enabling seniors to age in place, remaining in their own homes longer. Japan is on the cutting edge of this movement, with robotic assistance for seniors. These include robots that talk to seniors, respond to emotions, play games, dance and more. Here in the U.S., technology is giving seniors more confidence to live alone and allowing family members to monitor their wellbeing, even remotely, and avoid the decision to move an aging parent out of his or her home. "Smart" technology that includes sensors, voice activation, GPS, Bluetooth, smartphone monitoring apps and sophisticated computers means that aging in place a is becoming a more viable option for an increasing number of people. There are devices to track medication (see article on page 10) and activity — or inactivity — in the house, including falls and real-time health information. There are mobile push-button personal emergency response systems, and location tracking for monitoring loved ones at home, or even while they are away from home. For safety, there are motion-activated lights and smart doorbells with video cameras. Smart security systems can be set to automatically arm security systems and lock doors. Smart detection devices can alert users to dangers in the kitchen, water leaks, air quality problems and even overflowing bathtubs. Planning to age in place gets easier every day with new technology to keep seniors safe and comfortable in their homes. Aging in place New technology and more housing options making it possible SATURdAY, nOvEmBER 30, 2019 | dEcEmBER - SEniOR HEAlTH nwAdg.cOm/YOUATYOURBEST | YOU AT YOUR BEST | 5 there is hope InfertIlIty • fertIlIty treatment IVf • Donor Program Call 918-359-2229 (BABY) for an appointment today! 115 E 15th St Tulsa, OK www.TulsaFertilityCenter.com