Digital assistants and older adults

October 13, 2025

Imagine if your aging loved one could make a call, get medication reminders, or check the weather without lifting a finger. Maybe even chat with a device that responds to them. Today’s digital assistant devices make all this possible, giving your family member more independence. But while these “smart” helpers can do a lot, they also bring their own set of challenges. For instance, the need for tech support, the learning curve, and the privacy issues. And, of course, your loved one’s willingness to embrace new ways of doing things.

You know the names: Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. These systems can be preset for tasks and operated by voice command. They can be likened to having a companion and an extra set of hands in the house. Many families use them to support daily routines, track medications, and monitor safety.

Here are a few ways a digital assistant can help:

  • Reminders and well-being. Announcements for medications, mealtimes, etc. Wearables, such as a smartwatch or ring, provide health and movement tracking.
  • Safety and security. Connection to smart doorbells, thermostats, and alarms. And fall-detection wearables that call for help in real time and allow long-distance oversight. There are also wearables with GPS for wandering.
  • Communication. Hands-free calling or sending messages through speakers or earbuds.
  • Companionship and engagement. Word games, audiobooks, or music on command. Newer, AI-empowered devices can even chat with your relative about news or topics of interest.

Challenges to consider. Your family member must learn how to operate the systems as well as remember voice commands. They must also correctly hear and act on reminders and requests. In terms of privacy, these devices are always listening for their “wake word.” That means they are always on, and conversations are recorded. (You can manually delete stored conversations or turn the mic off.)

Before purchasing, honestly evaluate the potential usefulness of a digital device for your loved one. And whether you have the time to help them learn how to use it! It’s very possible that such a tool could give your relative a new sense of freedom and you fewer worries. Though at the end of the day, there is simply no match in the virtual world for personal check-ins and human connection.

Looking for tools to help an aging loved one?
As the Iowa City, Muscatine and Cedar Rapids experts in family caregiving, we at Iowa City Hospice know the value of the peace of mind that technology can bring. If you’re interested in exploring digital assistants for an older adult in your life, we can help you evaluate the best options. Our goal is to help lighten your load. Give us a call at 1-800-897-3052, toll-free to learn more.