Essential information
- Samsung is launching a SmartThings update for Family Care that enables caregivers (son, daughter, etc.) to remain informed about their loved ones.
- Users can now monitor a person’s “Activity,” gaining insights into their usage of the TV and other devices, and receive alerts if no activity has been detected for a specified duration.
- Caregivers are also able to establish schedules for their parents and send reminders for meals and medication.
Samsung’s SmartThings, usually responsible for connecting its smart devices, introduced a Family Care feature last year, and it’s now getting a significant update.
Earlier today (Aug 28), Samsung announced an update regarding its SmartThings Family Care feature, as it is being enhanced with new capabilities to better assist families. One focus for Samsung is improving its link for “effortless” check-ins. Now, the designated caregiver (son, daughter, etc.) can send you a text with a link to Family Care.
Upon receiving it, the parent/grandparent can accept and consent to Samsung’s standard options for health data collection and more. Once this process is completed, everything is prepared. Samsung claims that this simplified method should facilitate use for those unfamiliar with app usage since the required steps are very minimal and clear.
The latest update also enables “families to clarify caregiver and care recipient roles more distinctly.” This allows for clearer preferences regarding what information you wish to stay updated about.
Family Care is an integral part of SmartThings, meaning it connects to other smart home devices that the care recipient has nearby. Samsung indicates that users can choose which devices the caregiver wants to stay updated on. For example, if your mother has a TV at home and usually watches it in the afternoon.
If a device has gone unused for a period, Family Care can notify the caregiver. This notification will enable the caregiver to “respond promptly,” either by calling or texting. The update to Family Care allows users to customize how long inactivity periods should be and which devices they wish to be informed about.
This information is all captured under the recipient’s “Activity” logs.
Monitoring & Staying Updated
Maintaining a connection with our loved ones is vital, especially when we are responsible for their care. Family Care is introducing a well-known feature that alerts you when your loved one departs from or arrives at a designated location. Additionally, a map is available to see their movements and the route taken.
Finally, scheduling daily meals and medication at specific times is essential. The Family Care update enables users to create schedules and reminders for meal times and medication, helping to prevent any unexpected concerns. These updates are expected to roll out soon for Galaxy devices, so stay vigilant.