8 Free Apps for Family Caregivers I A Place for Mom

8 Free Apps to Help Manage Caregiver DutiesCaring for an older loved one involves an array of tasks managing medications, staying up-to-date on health news, and sharing information, just to name a few.App creators have come to the rescue with helpful ways to stay organized and informed.But with so many options available, deciding which app best meets your specific needs is a challenge.

Here weve outlined the features of eight free apps, available for iPhone or Android, to help you find the best match for you and your loved one.1.CareZoneAlso known as a health information organizer, CareZone helps caregivers easily access and store all medical information in one place.Top features enable caregivers to:Create to-do listsReceive medication reminders and track medication takenOrganize medication detailsKeep track of allergiesStore insurance and ID cardsRead news about your loved ones illness, disability, or condition2.

Alzheimers Caregiver BuddyThe Alzheimers Association knows if anyone needs a friend, its someone caring for a loved one with Alzheimers or another form of dementia.Thats why they created the Caregiver Buddy app to provide support and information about communication tips, challenging behaviors, and daily routines.Top features include:Access to the Alzheimers Associations free helpline, available 24/7Daily care tips related to hygiene and meal timesFun activities to stimulate the body and mind of a person with dementiaAdvice on how to cope with new and sometimes overwhelming behaviors like aggression or hallucinationResources to help manage caregiver stress3.First Aid by American Red CrossFirst aid and CPR knowledge is helpful for everyone, but essential for caregivers.

The American Red Cross created the First Aid App to provide users with clear and concise first aid and CPR instructions in the event of an emergency.Top features include:Simple step-by-step instructions for everyday first aid scenariosSteps to take during an emergency, with a 9-1-1 call buttonVideos and animations to make learning first aid fun and easyWeather safety and preparednessPreloaded content regarding all safety informationContent in English and SpanishDownloading the app is not a substitute for official training.Find an American Red Cross first aid or CPR training class near you.4.Med HelperWhether your loved one faces a short-term medical need or has a prolonged and complex condition, Med Helper makes it easy to maintain their prescriptions and medical regime.

Its consistently ranked as a top app for medical management.Top features include:Multiple profiles to manage others in your careMedication remindersDoctor appointment remindersMedication organizer that tracks refills and expiration datesVital signs trackerDetailed reports to print or export to doctors and other medical professionals5.CaringBridgeCommunication is critical when dividing up caregiving duties and sharing updates with concerned loved ones.CaringBridge connects multiple caregivers through a single app, providing easy access to appointment dates, new changes in health, and other essential information.

Additionally, CaringBridge has partnered with GoFundMe to allow users to raise funds to pay for ongoing caregiving and medical costs.CaringBridge enables caregivers to:Share diagnoses, medications, treatments, and milestones with family and friendsMaintain their loved ones privacy through the apps settingsSend inspiring messages and motivation to other caregivers who have been granted access6.SympleSymple makes journaling your loved ones feelings and monitoring their health, well, simple.It enables you to track overall well-being, steps, sleep, meals, medications, and more.Symple enables caregivers to:Create and track symptoms related to diet, activity, and medicationsImport steps, sleep, and other data from Apple HealthUse timestamped photos to keep a record of which medications were taken whenQuickly navigate past data using the interactive calendarUnlock premium features such as the smart journal, which makes it easy to build a list of questions for your doctorSecure your data with a passcode or fingerprint ID7.

HeadspaceHeadspace is a self-care resource for caregivers to reduce stress and sleep soundly.It makes it easy to master the techniques of meditation, which is proven to ease anxiety and mental stress.Top features include:Hundreds of guided meditations on managing stress and anxiety to aid in sleep, acceptance, patience, and resilienceA new Weathering the Storm section designed for support during times of crisis8.CareBetterCareBetter helps join a large community of people who care for loved ones with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia.

Users can get ideas, share resources, and support one another.CareBetter enables caregivers to:Connect with others who have been there, and ask them questionsGet advice on behaviors, diets, family dynamics, home care assistance, and moreRelated ArticlesExceptional Caregivers Share Their Tips5 Ways for Caregivers to Build a Support System7 Ways Technology Helps Family Caregivers