Generally speaking, older adults don't have the best relationship with technology, but digital solutions can be great allies in the right measure. That's how we discovered I'm Still Okay, a free service that allows seniors to “report their status” privately and say they're okay through a simple email. If they don't, the system will contact family and friends so they can step in as soon as possible.
My father has a smartphone grudgingly. He doesn't take it anywhere, doesn't charge it, and its management basically falls on me. From a certain point of view, I can't blame him: I personally detest smartphones, but I recognize their usefulness, and I know the situation is problematic. I also understand that other fathers have a more dynamic attitude toward technology, sharing all sorts of content on social media (for better or for worse), and enjoying long sessions with their devices. The service I'm Still Okay is suitable for everyone, but I imagine it will fit better among those 'tech-savvy adults' who don't hesitate to send an email or two.
A Check-In and Alert System for Seniors
The original creator of this service is David Freidberg. At 73 years old, David admits he has suffered some health problems, but he had the idea after talking with a friend who has passed 60 and lives alone with her cat. Basically, his friend's biggest fear (who is going through a serious case of osteoarthritis) is being paralyzed in bed, and no one finding out. After contacting his friend and developer Jouni Flemming, the final result is I'm Still Okay.
All the user has to do is create an account, set an interval of 24 or 48 hours for confirmation emails, and configure the contacts (up to ten) who will receive an alert if the check-in isn't done on time, with the option to prepare personalized messages for each one. The check-in email only has a link, and the service doesn't carry any dependency beyond an internet connection and an inbox. Finally, I'm Still Okay is free, so no tokens or cards. Do you feel it could be useful for any of your relatives? Take a look!
Official site: Click here
