I wear a smart watch that allows me to answer phone calls and texts. It helps me feel good about being away from my husband knowing that we are still able to connect. It also has features that support my safety like fall detection and SOS calls.  My husband also has a smart watch but his is strictly for fitness tracking his steps and workouts. My hope is that he will want one like mine when he realizes the advantages, it’s a remote hope at best. Some of our friends utilize emergency alert buttons you can wear around your neck to help them feel safer. We have smart appliances that make many of our tasks easier and more automated. Our grandson has a car that practically drives itself, that day isn’t too far off for all of us. I do wonder what happens when the devices get too smart for us, but that’s a thought for another day.

My husband had DBS surgery and when we replace his battery/control in a couple of years, I expect it will be adaptive. It will read and respond to his physical needs and adjust automatically as opposed to the current manual control. There is great work being done on other assistive technology devices such as gloves and glasses that may help manage symptoms for some people. Telehealth alone is allowing more access to the medical supports we need. My husband exercises through interactive Zoom classes, something we hadn’t even thought about just 5 years ago.

The newer technologies may be scary but they may also give back some of what PD is trying to take away. Much is happening in the PD world and I need to stay informed so I can help my husband embrace whatever tools come our way that might make our journey easier and out lives better.

Learn more about adaptive technologies and the possibilities at this link Assistive Technology For Parkinson’s Disease (occupationaltherapybrisbane.com.au).