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The call came in the middle of a client call… my Mom had to be rushed to the emergency room because she fell and couldn’t get up. I had been trying to get in touch with her – but her phone was uncharged so I couldn’t reach her. She was fine – but I realized I needed to put something in place so I could reach her even if she forgot to charge the phone.
Enter Alexa….
I have to admit the before getting my Mom an Echo Show 8 – I mostly used Alexa as kind of a glorified juke box. I never got too deeply into using it to shop, or order delivery. Now, I can’t imagine life as a caregiver without the instant video access Alexa provides. Plus, the fact that the Echo Show plugs into the wall (vs needing a charger) is a huge bonus for us.
I chose to buy my Mom the Echo Show 8 primarily because it easily connects to zoom for my mom’s telehealth appointments. If the event and meeting link are on my Mom’s google calendar – then connecting to the call is as simple as “Alexa – join my meeting”
Amazon Echo 8 Features For Seniors
Here are some of the reasons I specifically chose the Echo Show 8 for my Mom.
- Large Display and Clear Visuals: The Echo Show 8 features an 8-inch HD display, providing seniors with a clear and spacious screen to view content, make video calls, and navigate menus. The larger screen size makes it easier for seniors with visual impairments to read text, view photos, and watch videos, ensuring a more enjoyable and accessible user experience.
- Video Calling and Communication: Staying connected with family and friends is made effortless with the Echo Show 8. Seniors can make video calls using voice commands, allowing them to see and hear their loved ones clearly. The display enhances the visual aspect of communication, making conversations more engaging and personal. With features like Drop In and messaging, seniors can also connect with others effortlessly throughout the day.
- Voice Control and Accessibility: The Echo Show 8 is equipped with Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant, making it easy for seniors to control various functions using voice commands. This hands-free interaction eliminates the need for manual navigation, making it especially beneficial for seniors with limited mobility or dexterity. You can ask Alexa to play music, set reminders, read the news, or answer questions, all with simple voice prompts.
- Daily Routine Assistance: For seniors, sticking with a daily or weekly routine can be challenging. Alexa on the Echo Show 8 can act as a helpful personal assistant. My mom gets medication and appointment reminders and more. This is super helpful when I can’t be there myself.
- Entertainment and Information: The Echo Show 8 provides a plethora of entertainment options for seniors. From streaming movies and TV shows to accessing music, podcasts, and audiobooks, seniors can enjoy a wide range of content with exceptional audio and visual quality. Additionally, Alexa can provide information on a variety of topics, including news updates, recipes, and general knowledge, keeping seniors informed and engaged.
- Smart Home Integration: The Echo Show 8 serves as a central hub for controlling smart home devices. Seniors can adjust lighting, control thermostats, lock doors, and operate other compatible smart devices using voice commands or the touch screen. This seamless integration allows seniors to create a more comfortable and accessible home environment.
Alexa (and the Echo Show 8) have practically become part of our family. Amazon has a special service called Alexa Together that makes the Echo Show even more useful. I get messages when my Mom wakes up and turns on the radio, she can call for help in an emergency and I can get in touch with her even if she forgets to charge her phone. I highly recommend the Echo Show for any senior’s home to help them stay connected.