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Last Modified May 8, 2022 @ 12:41 pm
7 Ways To Use Amazon Echo Devices For Seniors Aging In Place At Home
First off, what is an Amazon Echo device?
Amazon Echo devices for seniors is a fairly new technology that compiles all sorts of digital items into one location, which is an Echo speaker and surround system about the size of a hockey puck (this referring to the Echo Dot series) which seniors can use for all sorts of tasks.
Several models have come out over the years, but the idea is the same.
The user sets up their Echo device, and after hooking the system up to an Amazon account, Alexa is born. Alexa is the digital voice used by Echo devices, which is similar to “Siri”.
The user asks Alexa for digital requests and Alexa will respond by either providing the requested item or by asking for more clarification.
An example includes, user: “Alexa, play music from my library”, Alexa: “Shuffling songs from your Amazon music library” (first song begins).
When we think about home safety in regards to aging adults, our minds automatically focus on falls within the home.
However, home safety encompasses so many more areas that often go unnoticed until a senior is left at home alone and something unexpected occurs.
Below in the picture you can see the different types of Amazon Echo Devices and how it has evolved over time.
Here are 7 Ways To Use Amazon Echo Devices For Seniors Living At Home Alone
Detecting Falls:
Seniors falling in the home is very serious business because it can result in injury, malnutrition (if left stranded on the floor for several hours), and death.
Some seniors are accustomed to using alert systems to call for help, but did you know that Amazon echo devices can do the same?
If a fall does occur, Amazon Echo devices can detect falls, call loved ones, and call 911 with the proper set-up.
Through the Alexa app, there is a feature called “Drop-in” which seems creepy at first but very handy in the event of an accident.
A loved one can ask Alexa to call another Amazon Echo device in a senior’s home without requiring the senior to pick it up or accept the call.
That way, loved ones can check in on someone who hasn’t contacted them in a while or is unable to answer back due to an injurious fall.
Users can also set up what is called an Amazon Echo Connect, which is a specific system that calls 911.
The majority of Echo devices do NOT call 911 directly. These models fell out of popularity, but are useful for seniors who need quick access to emergency services.
Other apps that users can download include “Ask My Buddy” and “My SOS Family” which stores contact information for people seniors would like to reach out to if they need help.
Medication Management and Mishaps:
Two years ago, Amazon paired up with a company called Omnicell and created an app that would allow seniors to have medication reminders and request prescription refills. Users download an app called Giant Eagle Pharmacy skill.
Alexa uses voice recognition and passcodes to protect pharmacy information so that only the user can access the refill requests and medication schedule.
(Video) He's Been Locked In This Machine For 70 Years
Home Security:
Through Alexa, users can tap into an app called “Guard” which detects trouble by listening to certain sounds that you enable in the app settings.
Examples include listening to the sound of broken glass as well as other turbulent noises. Alerts are sent directly to the phone that’s hooked up to Alexa so that users can immediately contact emergency services if needed.
There are also features that readily attach to an Alexa-compatible security system, including setting off sirens and other blaring sounds to scare off intruders.
Temperature Settings:
This is helpful for seniors who aren’t as mobile as they used to be and can’t access their thermostat regularly.Amazon Echo devices can be hooked up to Alexa compatible thermostat systems, so that all users have to do is ask Alexa to adjust their thermostat settings.
Fire Emergencies:
Using the “Guard” app that was previously mentioned, seniors can set up their Echo device to detect sounds that could indicate a fire.
For example, users can enable the app to listen to the sound of a smoke detector. Alexa will then alert the user by sending a message to their phone (which needs to be set up with the Echo device already).
Basic CPR:
In the event that a senior has fallen or has a medical episode that results in a situation where they are not breathing, caregivers and family members can actually ask Alexa for instructions for CPR.
(Video) He Tried To Mess With A Royal Guard & Big MistakeAlexa will also provide a pulse noise in order to help the person space out chest compressions correctly.
This feature is helpful for users who are not well-versed in CPR or who have previous training but are a little rusty.
It is essential to note that this should not be considered a complete replacement for professional emergency service workers, but it’s better than doing nothing while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
Natural Disaster Warning:
The AccuWeather skill can send users notifications about incoming severe weather. However, the user needs to go into settings and allow Alexa to send notifications.
Warnings of inclement weather will be voiced by Alexa and the device will send off a pulsating yellow light.
Amazon Echo devices for seniors have some use when it comes to home safety. It’s important to mention that the majority of these features that were discussed will only work if the user is within close enough range for the Echo device to pick up his/her voice.
Seniors should keep their mobile device with them at all times, especially if they are accustomed to falls or medical episodes, since it’s not a perfect world and emergencies won’t always occur within feet of an Echo device.
It should be noted that Amazon Echo devices for seniors are not designed to replace real people. Life is still very unpredictable, and digital devices and gadgets for seniors can only perform so much when it comes to assisting with human needs.
Home safety can be enhanced with the use of Amazon Echo devices. However, if a senior requires personal assistance in order to safely live at home, then caregivers/family members still need to have a consistent presence in their life.
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Samuel
Samuel is a physical therapist with over 20 years medical experience. He has extensive knowledge in functional rehabilitation in the acute care hospital and in-home care settings. He has spent most of his career helping seniors transition from hospital or rehab care to living independently at home.
In his free time he likes to travel and read autobiographies.
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Tags Amazon Echo Devices For Seniors, digital devices and gadgets for seniors, How to use Amazon Echo for Detecting Falls, How to use Amazon Echo for Fire Emergencies, How to use Amazon Echo for Home Security, How to Use Amazon Echo for Medication Management, How to use Amazon Echo for natural disaster warnings, How to use Amazon Echo for Temperature Settings, Use Alexa To Improve Home Safety
Author: Samuel
Samuel is a physical therapist with over 20 years medical experience. He has extensive knowledge in functional rehabilitation in the acute care hospital and in-home care settings. He has spent most of his career helping seniors transition from hospital or rehab care to living independently at home.In his free time he likes to travel and read autobiographies.View all posts by Samuel
FAQs
What can old people use Alexa for? ›
With Alexa's voice commands, seniors can simply call out and have Alexa control the lights or adjust smart appliance settings. Seniors with smart technology can control the thermostat, turn on the TV, adjust the oven temperature, monitor security systems, and more.
Is there an Alexa for elderly? ›Amazon's Alexa has a new role: helping seniors and caregivers. On Tuesday, Amazon launched Alexa Together in an effort to help aging consumers and family members or friends who assist in caring for them. The subscription service requires an Alexa-supported device such as an Amazon Echo speaker or the Echo Show.
How do I set up an Echo for my elderly parent? ›Set up an Echo Show with your loved one
Tap the screen and select a language. Select your loved one's home Wi-Fi network name from the list of available networks. Enter the Wi-Fi password, then tap Done in the bottom right corner. Ask your loved one to enter their Amazon account email and password and tap Sign in.
- Alexa. Alexa is built into Amazon Echo digital speakers and will access your Amazon account. ...
- Bixby. This is the virtual assistant started by Samsung. ...
- Cortana. Microsoft is also in the virtual digital assistant game with Cortana. ...
- Google Assistant. ...
- Siri.
...
Echo vs. Echo Dot.
| Amazon Echo | Amazon Echo Dot |
|---|---|
| It is a smart home device with a cylindrical-shaped design. | It is basically a stripped version of the Echo without the speaker grille. |
Making calls with an Amazon Alexa Echo device is free.
Can Alexa make phone calls to a landline? ›Can Alexa Make Phone Calls? Yes, with Alexa-to-Alexa calling, you can call compatible Echo devices or a smartphone with the Alexa app. You can also call most mobile or landline numbers in the US, Canada, and Mexico for free.
Can Alexa call 911? ›You can't ask Alexa to dial 911 or other emergency services directly, unless you have an Echo Connect hooked up to a landline phone. You can, however, set up a personal emergency contact, and turn on Alexa Guard for home security.
What all Alexa can do? ›What can Alexa do? Alexa is able to play music, provide information, deliver news and sports scores, tell you the weather, control your smart home and even allow Prime members to order products from Amazon.
Do you have to have an Amazon account to use Echo Show? ›You do need an Amazon account to control Alexa on your Amazon Echo or any other Alexa speaker. There's no way around it. The good news is that, unlike other Amazon services, you won't need to subscribe to Amazon Prime to use Alexa.
Can I set up Alexa for my mom? ›
Test the Installation
On your Echo Show say “Alexa, call Mom” (or whatever name or nickname you put in your Alexa Contacts). (Note: the first time Alexa may ask if you want her mobile phone or Alexa devices… choose Alexa devices.) Your Mom's Echo Show should offer her the option to answer.
Drop In is a feature that lets you instantly connect with an Echo device, including a contact's, as long as they have granted permission for you to do so. For instance, you can Drop In on any Echo device you own, or you can Drop In on a Echo device that your parents own.
What is the easiest device for seniors? ›- Apple iPad mini MD531LL/A. ...
- Microsoft Surface Pro 3. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 with S Pen. ...
- ASUS MeMO Pad FHD 10 ME302C-A1-BL 10.1-Inch 16GB Tablet. ...
- Lenovo Tab 10. ...
- Kindle Fire 7″ Tablet. ...
- Google Nexus 10. ...
- Acer Iconia A500-10S16u 10.1-Inch Tablet.
Smart speakers such as the Google Nest and Amazon Echo can automate multiple tasks around the house, making it easier for seniors with mobility issues to live independently.
Is there a monthly charge for Echo? ›There is no monthly fee involved in using Alexa. Once you purchase an Amazon Echo device, you have full access to Alexa's AI.
What does the Echo Dot do by itself? ›The Echo Dot can work as a standalone speaker without Alexa and other features; all you need is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. You also don't need any other Amazon devices to use the Echo Dot, although you might want to get another Echo if you are searching for better sound quality.
Can I have 2 Alexas in my house? ›You can set up and manage several Amazon Echo devices in your household and even play the same music on multiple Alexa devices at the same time.
Does calling on Alexa cost money? ›Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen)
Alexa-to-Phone lets users make free phone calls to landlines and mobile numbers in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Mexico simply by asking Alexa. You can use the feature to make outgoing calls, but Alexa won't field incoming calls or dial 911 unless you link Alexa with a mobile carrier.
Alexa-to-Alexa Calling
You can then call someone in your contacts list. Just ask Alexa to make the call through your Echo device. Say "Alexa, call [name of contact]," and Alexa places the call. To make a call with the Alexa app on your phone, make sure you're at the Communicate screen.
You can answer the call by saying "Answer" or by answering from your phone. If you don't want to answer the call, you can say "Ignore" or ignore it from your phone. If you get a call while you're already on a different call, the incoming call will just go to a different Echo device. There is no time limit to a call.
Can Alexa turn on my TV? ›
Connecting Alexa to a generic smart TV
Step 1: Open the Alexa app on your iOS or Android device. Step 2: Tap the Devices tab at the bottom of your screen. Step 3: Choose the + button in the upper-right corner, then select Add Device. Step 4: Scroll down and select TV.
You'll be able to make or receive calls even if your smartphone is offline. For those wondering, Alexa will receive and announce all phone calls to the incoming number out loud.
Can Alexa call any phone number? ›You can sync the Alexa app with your contacts on your smartphone and this will allow Alexa to call phone numbers, meaning you can call from your Echo to a mobile phone, for example. Alternatively, you can use Alexa to call other Echo devices that your contacts have.
What does Alexa do when you say intruder alert? ›Nothing. At least, there's no built-in skill called “Intruder Alert” that Alexa will recognize right out of the box. If you say that phrase to Alexa, the voice assistant will have no idea what to do — your time is better spent calling 911 if you actually think there's a burglar in your home.
What is whisper mode on Alexa? ›Amazon.com: Whisper Mode : Alexa Skills. Don't want to wake up a sleeping partner or family member when you ask Alexa for the weather in the morning or turn off the alarm? Whisper Mode allows you to whisper to Alexa, and she'll whisper her response back to you. This skill contains: dynamic content.
What is Alexa guard mode? ›Alexa Guard is a free feature available for supported Amazon Echo devices that can detect the sound of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, or glass breaking when you set Guard to Away mode. Alexa can send you Smart Alerts, via notifications to your mobile device.
Is Amazon Alexa always listening? ›The short answer is yes, Alexa is always listening to you. Or rather the microphone on your Alexa smart speaker is always active (by default, at least) and is constantly monitoring voices in your home in order to hear its wake word.
How much does Alexa cost a month? ›Is there a monthly fee for Amazon Alexa? No, there's no monthly fee charged for Amazon Alexa. All you need is a stable WiFi connection to make your Echo work. However, having an Amazon Prime account gives you various benefits of using the Echo.
What is Alexa favorite fruit? ›Correct Answer is Grapes . Alexa's favorite fruit is Grapes. Join Our Telegram Channel For Fastest Amazon Quiz Answers.
How many Alexa devices can you have on one account? ›There is no limit to how many Alexa devices you can have on one account. You can connect as many Alexa-enabled Echo Speakers under one Amazon account as you like, but you will be limited to using 6 simultaneously with Amazon's multi-room music feature.
Can you use Alexa without WiFi? ›
Amazon's Alexa is a device that strictly revolves around Wi-Fi to access everything from Google to various music-streaming services. Without Wi-Fi it is simply impossible to connect to these applications and features.
Will Alexa still work in 2022? ›After two decades of helping you find, reach, and convert your digital audience, we made the difficult decision to retire Alexa.com on May 1, 2022.
How do I get Alexa to ring my phone? ›Set up Alexa Calling
To enable Alexa Calling: Open the Amazon Alexa app (on your compatible iOS or Android phone). Open the Conversations tab from the bottom menu. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter and verify your phone information.
In the Alexa app, go to More > Settings > Your Profile & Family and select your name. Tap Guest Connect, then select the name of your host's Echo under the Available Connections section. Tap the Join button to access the Echo.
Can Alexa show make phone calls without a smartphone? ›Yes, you can use Alexa to dial a specific telephone number by saying Alexa, call 555-555-5555 (for instance), without needing a mobile phone. You just won't be able to call a specific contact name.
How do you drop in silently on Alexa? ›No, you can't silently eavesdrop with Alexa's drop in feature. When someone drops in to an Alexa-enabled device, that device makes a distinct ringing noise and continuously flashes a green-light, for as long as the drop in occurs. Neither can be turned off.
How do I use Echo as a security camera? ›To use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera, you'll need to enable the Home Monitoring feature on your Echo Show. Swipe down from the top of the screen and select Settings, followed by Camera. Now use the slider next to Home Monitoring to turn the function on.
Why does Alexa light up when no one is talking? ›It's Alexa's way of telling you the smart speaker is in Setup Mode or attempting to connect to your Wi-Fi network. So, if your network connection lapses from time to time, you're bound to encounter this color on what appear to be random occasions.
What do old people call the TV? ›CRT stands for cathode ray tube. People will call it an old-style television more often, though.
What is the best basic phone for seniors? ›- Kyocera DuraXE Epic from AT&T - Most Durable Phone for Seniors.
- Verizon Kyocera DuraXV Extreme - Best Cell Phone for Seniors with Hearing Loss.
- Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Best Flip Phone for Seniors.
- Snapfon ez4G - Easiest to Use Senior-Friendly Cell Phone.
What is the best phone for a 70 year old? ›
- Jitterbug Smart3. A great senior-focused smartphone. ...
- Doro 7030. A handy flip phone. ...
- GrandPad. A dockable smartphone. ...
- Doro 8050. A senior-focused smartphone. ...
- Jitterbug Flip2. A flip phone for US seniors. ...
- Nokia 3310 3G. specifications. ...
- iPhone SE 2020. specifications. ...
- Nokia G10 / G11. US and UK counterparts.
Alexa has the upper hand of better smart home integration and more supported devices, while Assistant has a slightly bigger brain and better social skills. If you've big plans for the smart home, Alexa is your better bet, but Google's generally more intelligent right now.
Who is better Alexa or Siri? ›Conclusion. Features and functionalities of both these platforms are on par. But due to its universality in connecting with multiple devices seamlessly, Alexa wins over Siri, a premium a sophisticated system.
Which one is better Alexa or Google Home? ›Because of this head start, Alexa supports more smart home devices than Google. Still, most major smart home device makers like Philips Hue and Samsung SmartThings support both. But Alexa has another advantage over Google: it can directly control Zigbee devices using the Echo, Echo Studio, and Echo Show 10.
Is Alexa helpful for seniors? ›Virtual assistants like Alexa can be a useful tool for seniors with Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia. For example, Alexa can assist seniors with music therapy by providing an easy way to play music. Seniors simply need to ask Alexa to play the song they want to hear.
Is Amazon Echo easy to use? ›Fortunately, Amazon Alexa devices are easy to use and don't require a lot of effort setting them up. All you have to do is plug them into the wall, enable them via Alexa app and you're good to go.
Can Alexa call 911? ›You can't ask Alexa to dial 911 or other emergency services directly, unless you have an Echo Connect hooked up to a landline phone. You can, however, set up a personal emergency contact, and turn on Alexa Guard for home security.
Can Alexa call 911? ›You can't ask Alexa to dial 911 or other emergency services directly, unless you have an Echo Connect hooked up to a landline phone. You can, however, set up a personal emergency contact, and turn on Alexa Guard for home security.
Can I drop in on my parents Alexa? ›Drop In is a feature that lets you instantly connect with an Echo device, including a contact's, as long as they have granted permission for you to do so. For instance, you can Drop In on any Echo device you own, or you can Drop In on a Echo device that your parents own.
Can Alexa make phone calls to a landline? ›Can Alexa Make Phone Calls? Yes, with Alexa-to-Alexa calling, you can call compatible Echo devices or a smartphone with the Alexa app. You can also call most mobile or landline numbers in the US, Canada, and Mexico for free.
Is there a charge to have Alexa? ›
No, there's no monthly fee charged for Amazon Alexa. All you need is a stable WiFi connection to make your Echo work. However, having an Amazon Prime account gives you various benefits of using the Echo.
What does Alexa do when you say intruder alert? ›Nothing. At least, there's no built-in skill called “Intruder Alert” that Alexa will recognize right out of the box. If you say that phrase to Alexa, the voice assistant will have no idea what to do — your time is better spent calling 911 if you actually think there's a burglar in your home.
What is whisper mode on Alexa? ›Amazon.com: Whisper Mode : Alexa Skills. Don't want to wake up a sleeping partner or family member when you ask Alexa for the weather in the morning or turn off the alarm? Whisper Mode allows you to whisper to Alexa, and she'll whisper her response back to you. This skill contains: dynamic content.
Can Alexa turn on my TV? ›Connecting Alexa to a generic smart TV
Step 1: Open the Alexa app on your iOS or Android device. Step 2: Tap the Devices tab at the bottom of your screen. Step 3: Choose the + button in the upper-right corner, then select Add Device. Step 4: Scroll down and select TV.
No, you can't silently eavesdrop with Alexa's drop in feature. When someone drops in to an Alexa-enabled device, that device makes a distinct ringing noise and continuously flashes a green-light, for as long as the drop in occurs. Neither can be turned off.
How do I use Echo as a security camera? ›To use your Amazon Echo Show as a home security camera, you'll need to enable the Home Monitoring feature on your Echo Show. Swipe down from the top of the screen and select Settings, followed by Camera. Now use the slider next to Home Monitoring to turn the function on.
Why does Alexa light up when no one is talking? ›It's Alexa's way of telling you the smart speaker is in Setup Mode or attempting to connect to your Wi-Fi network. So, if your network connection lapses from time to time, you're bound to encounter this color on what appear to be random occasions.
What number does Alexa call from? ›Echo-to-phone calling is supported by all Echo devices as well as most mobile and landline numbers in the US, UK, Canada, and Mexico. After you set up Alexa-to-Alexa Calling, your phone number is associated with your account and is the number that appears to people you call through your Echo.
Can Alexa act as an answering machine? ›Answering A Call with Your Amazon Echo
The light ring on the Echo should turn green, and Alexa will notify you of the call. To answer using the Echo, say “Alexa answer call.” If you want to answer using the app, answer your phone as usual.
You can answer the call by saying "Answer" or by answering from your phone. If you don't want to answer the call, you can say "Ignore" or ignore it from your phone. If you get a call while you're already on a different call, the incoming call will just go to a different Echo device. There is no time limit to a call.
How much does it cost a month to have Alexa? ›
Do you then have to pay to use Alexa as a service? There is no monthly fee involved in using Alexa. Once you purchase an Amazon Echo device, you have full access to Alexa's AI. Technically, you can even use the Alexa app on your smartphone for free without the purchase of a smart speaker.
Is Amazon Alexa always listening? ›The short answer is yes, Alexa is always listening to you. Or rather the microphone on your Alexa smart speaker is always active (by default, at least) and is constantly monitoring voices in your home in order to hear its wake word.
How many Alexa devices can you have on one account? ›There is no limit to how many Alexa devices you can have on one account. You can connect as many Alexa-enabled Echo Speakers under one Amazon account as you like, but you will be limited to using 6 simultaneously with Amazon's multi-room music feature.