Useful Apps For Caregivers

In today's fast-paced world nearly everyone has a smart phone. Whether you're just playing games or organizing your life, there's an app for everything nowadays; caregiving is no exception.

There are many apps on the market designed for caregivers: from general caregiving information to tracking medication schedules. Here is a small sample of some free, highly rated apps available to help you care for your loved one.

Elder 411 and Elder 911 (iPhone)

Both apps are made by the same geriatric care manager.

Elder 911 will walk you through an emergency. You can select your relation to the person and then the type of crisis. The app walks you through the different steps you should take and the different information you should have for each step of the emergency.

Elder 411 has over 500 pieces of expert advice organized into 11 topics. The caregiving information app includes advice related to finances, communication, safety and a host of other caregiving topics.

CareZone (Android & iPhone)

This secure app covers the caregiving bases related to medication management. It lets you track medications, take notes, keep patient information, upload pictures and messages, and share with your family. CareZone keeps all of your loved one's important medication information in one place to keep you and your family organized.

iPharmacy (Android & iPhone)

Use iPharmacy to keep track of all of your loved one's medication. You can set medication reminders as well as receive information about over 20,000 FDA-approved drugs. Learn the purpose, side effects, and interactions of your loved one's medicine. This app also lets you search clinical journal articles concerning certain medications.

Alzheimer's & Other Dementias Daily Companion (Android & iPhone)

This app provides you with quick advice from caregivers on how to best handle situations related to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. With over 500 pieces of advice, you can browse categories such as behaviors and challenging situations, emotional support and helpful resources. If you can't find what you're looking for, you can always submit a question to find it.

Caregivers who take advantage of the digital age can be much more organized and informed when it comes to the care of their loved ones. Though some apps cost money, many are free and easy to use. Take advantage of what your smart phone has to offer and try out some of the many caregiving apps.

Resources: Caring.com, helpforalzheimersfamilies.com & agingcare.com