Technology can help keep the elderly safe

— -- We worry that we can't always be there for our elderly parents. Fortunately, technology can give you peace of mind. It will also help your elderly parents live independently longer. Links to products mentioned here can be found at www.komando.com/news.

Easy ways to keep watch

webcams are great for checking in with family. They're a simple and inexpensive solution. Most are priced less than $50.

You'll need two, one for your PC and one for your parent's setup. Get the same make and model. It will make setting up the calls a lot easier.

Using the cams, you can have a video call with your parents. Simply use free video chat programs like Skype and Yahoo Messenger. You'll get confirmation of their well-being. The better webcams let you pan and tilt the camera. In addition, you'll be able to record the calls.

Alternatively, you can sign your parents up for SkypeIn. For $3 monthly, it lets Skype users call cellphones and landlines. If you're not at a computer, your parents can still reach you.

You can also monitor your parents via a security camera. These are designed to protect areas from thieves and intruders. They start around $100.

With a security camera, you can see what's going on via any Web browser. No user intervention is needed. The camera is always on, so you can check in at any time. You can get e-mail or text alerts when motion is detected. And all that's required is an Internet connection.

Look for one with a two-way intercom. You'll be able to talk and hear their response.

Also consider a cellphone for seniors like the Jitterbug ($147) or ClarityLife ($270). With slimmed-down features and easy-to-use buttons, they're perfect for seniors. Your parents can reach you from anywhere. You can text reminders to take medication.

Monitoring health

Microsoft's HealthVault can help monitor your parents' health. It can download logs from a variety of manufacturers' gadgets.

For example, it works with some Omron blood pressure monitors (starting around $65), Bayer blood glucose monitors (starting around $30) and Tanita scales (starting around $210). You can view the logs yourself, or share them with doctors.