Caregivers are always looking for ways to assist them in their ongoing efforts to make life as normal as possible for those entrusted to them.

At Lutheran SeniorLife, which operates retirement communities at a variety of locations, special effort is being made to keep families aware of how technology can make their lives easier.

Sherri Whalen, technology coordinator, is one of the few staff people in the region designated to help residents learn about technological solutions for everyday living.

“Families really appreciate it. There is just so much available, it is next to impossible for them to keep on top of it. If we hear of a specific need, I am happy to investigate it and help them learn about the technology that could help,” Whalen said.

One example is a stove-guard fire prevention system. It is a device that is placed on a stove, and if there is no motion within a designated period of time, the stove shuts off. “Families love it. They are worried about family members who may turn on the stove and forget about it. It is easy to use, fairly inexpensive (about $350) and easy to obtain,” she said.

Other examples, which are part of a presentation Whalen often makes to residents at Lutheran SeniorLife communities, include: an automatic, touch-free faucet ($69); a motion-activated outlet that turns on any electrical device when it detects motion ($18), a talking microwave ($150); a television messenger caller ID, which displays an incoming caller’s name and phone number on a TV screen, ($80); a lighted full-page magnifier ($80); and an anti-scalding device ($37).

The talking microwave is one that attracts the most attention among seniors after Whalen’s demonstration. The microwave verbally takes users through the cooking process and can be programmed in English and Spanish.

“It lists the most frequently cooked items, such as vegetables, soup, pizza, popcorn etc., and automatically cooks them for the specified amount of time. They love it,” Whalen said.

If a caregiver wants to learn more about these items, Whalen finds most of the information on-line. “It just takes a lot of time, and awareness of a particular person’s needs.”

Whalen primarily serves residents of Lutheran SeniorLife communities. She also is glad to help caregivers in the area who may need some ideas. She can be reached at 412-452-3619.