Innovations such as fall detectors, pill reminders, and smart homes can help seniors live at home longer. Technology not only empowers caregivers in the home but is a powerful means to support and inform family caregivers and improve care for seniors. In fact, a recent study shows that the combination of mobile technology and observations from care workers in the home can help predict 30-day readmissions. This is a valuable and cost-effective approach to innovative health care delivery. Home care companies are embracing these innovations to improve efficiency and delivery of care. Researchers at Harvard Medical School are developing software that will strengthen caregiver’s ability to detect and report changes their clients' health. The project is aimed at providing better on-the-job tools for caregivers and ultimately prevent hospitalizations, improve health outcomes, and lower Medicare spending among private—pay home care recipients.

Of course, no app or smart device can provide the same care assistance as an in-home caregiver, nor can technology replace the human touch, connection, and companionship between seniors and Caregivers.