While technology can sometimes get a bad rap, it is having a major impact on the health care industry in a number of positive and exciting ways. From increased connectivity and improved communication between medical providers to 3D printing, significant strides are being made to transform the ways in which physicians and nurses practice medicine and clients receive treatment. Additionally, there have never been more resources available—literally at your fingertips—to make caring for a sick loved one easier. With seemingly endless apps out there, we’ve narrowed down the top five apps that every caregiver should download now.
1. Symple
Voted a best healthy lifestyle app by Healthline in 2019, Symple allows you to track symptoms and side effects and then turns that data into interactive graphs or spreadsheets that can be analyzed by your loved one’s doctor.
2. Carezone
Keeping track of and protecting your loved one’s health information is a big responsibility. With several layers of security, Carezone’s software allows you to safely record medications, allergies, side effects, and insurance data, plus the app can send you reminders about upcoming medical appointments.
3. eCare21
By pairing eCare21 with a 24/7 monitoring device such as a FitBit or smart watch, you can remotely monitor your loved one’s glucose, heart rate, sleep, physical activity, and more, providing you with peace of mind and the ability to make informed decisions from virtually anywhere.
4. RxSaver
We don’t have to tell you that medication can get, well, expensive. It can be difficult to know if you’re getting the best deal, since drug prices vary not only by pharmacy location, but also by which discount source is used. RxSaver searches several of the nation’s lowest pharmacy discount sources to find prescription discount cards, coupons, and Rx assistance programs to save your family money, with or without insurance.
5. Headspace
Unlike the other apps on this list, this one’s just for you. The reality of caring for a sick loved one is that while the work may be rewarding, it can also be incredibly demanding and leave you feeling alone. By teaching the life-changing skills of meditation and mindfulness in just a few minutes a day, Headspace has helped millions of users in more than 190 countries stress less, focus more, and even sleep better.
As you care for your sick loved one, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it, and to prioritize your own health and wellness. And, by downloading the right apps, you can receive a little extra support with just the tap of a screen.