“Nana”-Technology
USC Davis School of Gerontology Experts Appear On The Early Show
By Jonathan Riggs
 Dean Emeritus, Ed Schneider, M.D.
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Tapping the expertise of the USC Davis School of Gerontology’s Dr. Ed Schneider and alum Dr. Alexis Abramson, CBS’s The Early Show devoted an August 5 segment to what they deemed “Nana”-technology. “It’s a new generation of electronic devices helping senior citizens stay healthy and independent,” anchor Harry Smith said.
“Technology is going to change the way adult children can help care for their aging parents,” Schneider said, citing how many of the devices can broadcast vital and up-to-the-minute information about a parent’s actions to their grown children living in a different neighborhood, city or even state.
Abramson ran through a series of products intended to maintain an older person’s independence while keeping their support system thoroughly and accurately informed, including an easily-navigated touch-screen computer, smart emergency transmitters with GPS technology, and an automated medication dispenser that not only audibly reminds users when it’s time for their doses, but also contacts the support system if the regiment is not followed.
USC Davis School Alum Alexis Abramson
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“People just want to hold on to living at home as long as they can,” Abramson said. “These will help them live more independently, and be less co-dependent on their caregiver.”
Although the challenges facing an older person—as well as his or her children or support system—during this transition may often prove difficult, Abramson and Schneider agree that tools like these are doing a great deal to improve the experience. While the balance between safety and independence for older Americans is a never-ending negotiation, the peace of mind provided by gerontological advancements in technology—for the older person and his or her support system alike—is a breakthrough welcomed by all generations.
Click here to watch the entire segment online.
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