INSURANCE

Q:My adult children are concerned because I live alone. I understand their need to check on me, but I like my independence, too. Is there a happy medium?

A:Laura Mutsko

Agent and CSA

For a growing number of older adults and special needs users, smart technology is offering a means for them to maintain their independence while providing peace of mind for their family and caregivers. For example, one of my favorite new devices designed to help caregivers remotely check in without being intrusive is Amazon’s Alexa Care Hub, a feature available in all Alexa-enabled devices. It helps family members and caregivers stay in closer contact with those they care for. Once you set up the Care Hub, the Alexa app displays a dashboard to show your family member your Alexa activity throughout the day and get a general sense of when you last used your Echo device to do something. The information provided is filtered for privacy so the app will not show exactly what Alexa has been asked to do, only that you have asked it to perform a function.

If your Amazon device is configured to allow drop-ins, you can say “Alexa, call [device name]” to start a two-way conversation at any time. You can also ask Alexa for emergency help directly with a simple command like “Alexa, call for help” or “Alexa, call my emergency contact.” The Care Hub is free and easy to set up. Both parties will need an Amazon account to get started. You will also need an Alexa Echo smart device in your home and the person looking to check on you will need a smartphone or tablet with the Alexa Care Hub app.

To learn more about Amazon’s Care Hub, go to Amazon’s Care Hub home page and click “Get Started,” or the “Care Hub” section in the Alexa app.

While many people have resisted technology up until now, I can assure you that efforts to learn how to use new devices like the Alexa Care Hub will be well worth your time and attention. New internet features like this and other technologies will help you maintain your independence and stay connected to the world at large. If you need assistance with your insurance, including Life, Health, Medicare Advantage Plan, Medicare Supplement, or Medicare Prescription coverage, please contact me at 440-255-5700 or email me at Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com.

Laura Mutsko Mutsko Insurance

Services, LLC 6982 Spinach Drive, Mentor, OH 44060

440-255-5700 www.mutskoinsurance.com