Suggested health and care technology
This page suggests digital apps and tools that can help you with:
- daily activities
- health and care needs
You can download apps from:
- Google Play for Android phones or tablets
- App Store for Apple phones or tablets
You can buy digital tools from from:
- local shops like Argos, Boots or some pharmacies
- specialist disability shops
- online retailers like Amazon
- through a specialist website like Living Made Easy
Taking medication and other daily tasks
Smart technology can help you remember to take your medication safely and on time.
There are many tools and apps available that provide reminders, prompts, and reassurance for you, your family or carers.
For example:
- smartphone reminder apps that send alerts or alarms when medication is due
- electronic pill dispensers that light up, beep or unlock when it’s time to take medication
- medication tracking apps, like Pill Reminder or Medisafe, that record when you’ve taken your medication
You can also use apps like this for other daily reminders, such as for eating or washing.
Travel
Smartphones and smart watches can make travelling and getting around feel safer, easier, and more independent.
Travelling can often feel daunting, but using tools like voice assistants or navigation apps on your phone can help you:
- find locations
- call for help
- check travel information
- plan routes in advance
You can also adapt your phone to make it easier for you to use. For example, you can make the text bigger or use vibration prompts to alert you to travel updates.
By reducing anxiety around unfamiliar travel, these tools can make you feel more supported and independent when out and about.
Staying safe at home
There are many digital tools you can use at home. These can reassure you and your family or carers about your wellbeing.
For example, you could use:
- a personal alarm for emergencies in your home, quickly contact help if needed
- automatic lights that automatically turn on to reduce falls, especially at night
- smoke, carbon monoxide, and flood detectors that send alerts if there is a danger in the home
Communicating and reading
Technology and apps can help you communicate more easily in everyday life.
These tools can improve confidence, independence, and access to information for those with:
- communication difficulties
- learning needs
- visual impairments
- language barriers
For example:
- Speak4Me is a text-to-speech app where you type in messages and the app reads them aloud in a clear voice
- iTranslate is a language translation app that can help you communicate more easily when reading, speaking, or understanding another language
Staying healthy
Technology can be a helpful way to support you with staying healthy, active, and independent.
There are many apps and digital tools available that can encourage healthy habits, support wellbeing, and make it easier to manage physical and mental health.
For example, MyFitnessPal is a health and wellbeing app designed to help you track your food, exercise, and daily habits. You can use the app to:
- record your meals
- monitor calorie intake
- record physical activity
- set personal health goals, such as weight management, improving fitness, or building healthier routines
If you’re blind or have low vision
Be My Eyes is a free smartphone app designed to support those who are blind or have low vision.
The app connects you through a live video call with a volunteer who can help by describing what they can see through the phone’s camera.
It can be useful in many everyday situations, such as:
- reading food labels or expiry dates
- reading letters or instructions
- getting help when shopping or travelling
More help with technology
If you’re working with a health or social care professional to manage a long-term condition, we may be able to give you more support through our Digital Health and Care Technology Service (DHACT).
To request an assessment for this, contact the Adult Social Care team.