Affordable high-tech gadgets and services can make senior living safer and more comfortable.

Most people want to age gracefully in their own homes. If you're a senior who chooses this path, though, the kids want to know that you're healthy and safe. There's no need to spend thousands of dollars every month on in-home caregivers or dreaded nursing homes-there are technical solutions to the human problems of old age.

"Help! I've fallen... "

Slip, trip, and fall hazards take on a new meaning when your bones turn brittle. Falling down without being able to call for help can lead to expensive hospital stays. Luckily, there are plenty of gadgets to help you avoid that unpleasant situation.

Wristbands and pendants can alert a monitoring service or your loved ones if you fall. Some detect the problem on their own, while others require you to press a button. They're no help unless you actually wear them, but there are other solutions for the forgetful or way-too-stylish. Some options include floor vibration or motion detectors calibrated to pick up on the telltale signs of a simple accident. These are much more expensive than the wearable devices, but still less costly than huge hospital bills.

Health signs from afar

When your general health seems more important than a single concern like the risk of falling, you can monitor your heart rate, glucose levels, blood pressure, and other vital signs. Slip on an arm cuff or a wristband, press a button, and your health care provider gets an instant report on your most important metrics.

There are even two-way video systems with attached health-checking gadgets that make it possible to have a face-to-face remote check-up done from the comfort of your home. Unlike the fall detectors, these tele-metrics devices may be covered by health insurance, and even prescribed by your doctor.

Other tech tricks

Automated medicine dispensers can help with your prescriptions and vitamins, without the risk of overmedication. Flashing lights for the hearing impaired, and a screen that gives instructions like "take with food" offer additional benefits. Some systems can alert your caregiver if you don't take your medicine.

The medical benefits of an active social life are hard to prove, but many seniors feel better when they can stay connected to their friends and family. Cell phones and instant-messaging services on personal computers can help, including voice and video chatting, and sending pictures of the grandkids. Even video games can help-Wii Bowling is easier on the joints than a trip to the local bowling alley, but you use the same technique to knock over those pins. It's a chance for grandpa to school the grandkids in a real sport. The console comes with gentler versions of real tennis, boxing, and baseball, too.

The VCR display may still blink 00:00 until the kids come for a visit, but you can reap the health benefits of simple technologies on your own. Ask your doctor for more information, and see what the insurance plan might cover.