Caring for Elderly Parents
I moved my 94-year-old mother to my home to recover from a surgical procedure. It’s been two years, and she has finally come to terms that she can no longer live alone in her home. My home has three levels and my totally blind mother can not maneuver the stairs on her own. Therefore, she resides on the lower level of the house. I have an intercom system, however, due to her blindness, Mom is unable to use it. So if she needs assistance, how can she reach me if I am upstairs? The answer is Alexa.
Alexa call Renee
I have Alexa devices in most rooms of my home, so if she needs to reach me all she has to do is say “Alexa drop in on Renee’s room, or Alexa drop in on the kitchen. Clever right?! Yes, however, there are times when Alexa won’t cooperate and will not drop in when Mom tells her to. I have gone downstairs and Mom would say, “I tried to get you but Olivia wouldn’t answer.” “Mama, her name is Alexa, not Olivia.” I had Alexa playing music and mama complained that she wouldn’t stop playing when she said, “stop the music, Alexa.” Well, you have to say the wake-up word first, which is Alexa, then give her a command.
Having Alexa works well, mostly. Mom can make telephone calls via Alexa and listen to music and audiobooks. She can’t answer the telephone, however, if someone calls from their Alexa device she is able to answer the calls.
Other Benefits to Alexa
I realize Alexa is a good companion for my mother. She can ask Alexa the time, get the latest news, and weather report. Alexa even tells her jokes and can sing happy birthday. Every night before Mom goes to bed, she will say “good night Alexa” and Alexa responds ” good night, sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite.” LOL
If you are comfortable with smart devices in you home, I strongly recommend Alexa, it works well for us.
