Having The Conversation

The idea of installing smart technology in a loved one’s home can sometimes be met with fear and resistance.  Here are a few suggestions to help make the conversation goes well from the start.

Step 1: Confirm your loved one is a good candidate for a monitoring solution.

Self-monitoring solutions for seniors and other vulnerable adults are not always the right answer for everyone.  These types of solutions are not a substitute for medical care.  In some cases, it may be more advisable for a loved one to be placed in an assisted living situation.

Step 2: Confirm your relatives and siblings are on the same page.

Before having a conversation with your loved one, make sure your relatives understand that you are considering a monitoring solution to confirm they are supportive.  Let them know that they can be included in the solution if they wish.

Step 3: Make sure your loved one knows you want to help them live independently for as long as possible.

Most of our loved ones prefer to live on their own.  Tell them you want to support them in this decision.

Step 4: Let your loved one know that you worry about them when you cannot be there.

Help them to see that what you are proposing is not only for their well-being but also for your personal peace of mind.

Step 5: Make sure your loved one knows that you respect their privacy.

Some people see monitoring solutions as “being creepy” or invasive to their privacy. Explain that the system you are proposing operates on motion-based sensors and switches, and that you are not proposing to install cameras or listening devices in their home.  Also, help them to understand that our solutions are based upon notifying you of exception situations, such as the failure to return from their bathroom, and that you will not be “watching their every move.”

Step 6: Let them know that there’s no operational requirement on their part.

Many seniors can be intimidated by new technology.  Help them understand that there’s no need for them to interact with the system other than to take their smartphone with them when they come and go.