Smart-home devices are becoming more common, and many people now have them in their homes. You may have heard of Amazon Echo or Amazon Alexa, but you may not be familiar with what these devices are and what they can do.
As a smart-home device, the Amazon Echo can help you do a number of tasks, and you can use it for entertainment. With all the creative ways you can use an Amazon Echo, you’ll see how there are so many benefits to having one of these devices.
An Amazon Echo for seniors provides a way for you to stay connected with family members and the world, help with a variety of day-to-day tasks, and provide entertainment.
What Are Amazon Echo and Alexa?
The Amazon Echo is a hands-free smart-home device that can help you accomplish tasks, connect with others, and provide entertainment. The Echo uses an artificial intelligence called Alexa, which responds to voice commands.
To use the Echo, you address it by saying a wake word and then the command. Wake words signal to the Echo that you’re going to say something. “Alexa” is the default wake word. However, you can change it in the settings to “Amazon,” “Echo,” “computer” or “Ziggy.”
You can use the Echo to:
- Set reminders for events and appointments
- Create lists (like a shopping list)
- Ask questions
- Make phone calls
- Play music
For example, if you want your Alexa to remind you of an upcoming doctor appointment, you can say “Alexa, remind me of my doctor appointment tomorrow at 2 p.m.”
There are many iterations of the Amazon Echo. Some look like speakers, while others have a digital display. If you think you’d mainly use the Echo for voice command, then opting for smart speakers like the Echo Dot may be the better option.
However, if you like a visual display where you can watch videos, look up recipes, and participate in video calls, the Echo Show tablet option may be the right choice for you.
How Can Amazon Echo Help Seniors?
Amazon Echo devices can be a big help for older adults, especially if you’re living on your own. In addition to all the regular functions like setting reminders and making calls, there’s an additional add-on subscription called Alexa Together, which is essentially Alexa for seniors and caregivers.
Alexa Together
At a cost of $19.99 per month, Alexa Together can provide much peace of mind to you and your family. You’ll have the Echo device, and your family members can check in on the Alexa app.
- 24/7 urgent response
- Fall detection response
- Remote alarm and reminder aide
- Customized alerts
- Circle of support
- Activity feed
- Photo sharing
With these features in place, you have peace of mind to be in your space on your own. If you need help, the 24/7 urgent response is in place for emergencies, while customized alerts can help you with your everyday tasks.
Fall detection connects to compatible devices so if a fall occurs, Amazon Alexa can call for an urgent response and connect with emergency contacts.
You may not need Alexa Together now, but it’s good to know that this service is here if and when you need it.
Alexa Guard Plus
This is a home safety subscription service. When you’re leaving, you say “Alexa, I’m leaving now,” which signals to Alexa to start guarding. It can detect smoke or carbon monoxide alarms, as well as noise that could potentially be an intruder like footsteps, voices, and breaking glass.
With Alexa Guard Plus, you get the following:
- Hands-free access to an Emergency Helpline
- Updates on activity in your home
- Connect with Alexa-enabled devices like smart lights and cameras to make it look like you’re home
When the Alexa detects anything, you are sent a Smart Alert, and you can open the Alexa app to see what the alert was and if you need to take further action. Additionally, your Echo will sound a siren to further deter any intruders in the home.
But this isn’t just for potential intruders. If you’re home and an emergency happens, you can say “Alexa, call for help,” and your Amazon device will connect you with an agent who can dispatch emergency services.
No matter what your needs, there are endless benefits to owning an Amazon Alexa device.
Stay Connected at Copeland Tower Living
Copeland Tower Living is where you can live the engaged and active lifestyle you’ve always wanted. Right in the heart of Metairie, LA, Copeland Tower Living is a short drive from New Orleans and all the city has to offer. As you’re enjoying living independently, Copeland Tower Living provides the social connection so your schedule is full of fun activities with friends.
The next time you’re setting reminders on your Amazon Echo, be sure to say “Alexa, remind me to call Copeland Tower Living for a tour!”
