Video doorbells are more than a nice-to-have novelty device for the front door. The easy-to-use doorbell systems provide some real benefits to the elderly; adding security, convenience and peace of mind while being incredibly helpful for those with mobility issues.
In this guide you’ll learn the benefits of video doorbells for the elderly, what features to look out for when buying a video doorbell, and recommendations for some of the best video doorbells available for elderly people.
Why are video doorbells useful for elderly people?
Video doorbells, sometimes known as smart doorbells, are incredibly beneficial for elderly people, providing numerous advantages such as;
Enhanced Security
Being able to see who is on the doorstep and speak to them without getting up and opening the door, not only provides great security and safety for elders but gives peace of mind to their loved ones. Most video doorbells feature night recording abilities so even if it’s dark outside you can see who is there.
Helpful for people with mobility issues
If you or a loved one uses a walking aid or has other mobility issues that make it difficult to respond to the doorbell quickly then a video doorbell is the perfect solution with its remote video viewing and two-way communication.
Deterrent for intruders
The added security that a video doorbell provides is a great deterrent for intruders and scammers as they are aware that they are being recorded.
Remote monitoring and recording
Video monitoring on the doorstep provides added safety and convenience. Most devices feature an automatic record function allowing you to record and save video footage should it be needed as evidence in the case of an incident.
Screen visitors
Knowing who is at the door before you open it means that you can easily ignore those nuisance visitors such as door-to-door salespeople or other unexpected strangers.
Never miss a delivery or someone at the door again
If your loved one sometimes fails to hear the doorbell then a video doorbell is the answer. With a remote two-way speaker not only can your loved one hear the bell clearly in the room where they are but they can see who it is and respond through the two-way communication function. With the recording function, you even get to see who has visited when you’re not at home.
Peace of mind for the elderly and their loved ones
With their ease of use and numerous benefits for convenience and safety, video doorbells offer peace of mind for the elderly and their loved ones.
Can save money on home insurance
Many insurance companies favour customers using home security devices such as video doorbells and will offer discounts on their premiums to those who have them in their homes.
Considerations for choosing video doorbells
When buying a video doorbell for an elderly person look out for these useful functions:
User-friendly interface with large buttons and clear labels
Some models are more suited to elderly users as they feature a simple interface with large clear buttons for ease of use.
Adjustable audio options
While all video doorbells come with adjustable volume controls some have additional audio functions. For example, some can work with the doorbells existing chime, or moveable Wi-Fi-connected chimes which can be moved around the home and plugged into any available socket, which is a useful feature for elders who are hard of hearing.
Wide-angle camera and clear video resolution
A video doorbell needs to show you all of the property so a wide-angled camera lens of 120 degrees or wider is recommended. Video resolution may vary and low resolution will make images less clear. A resolution of 1080p HD or higher will give a clear, non-pixelated image.
Two-way communication
Most video doorbells have speakers and microphones built-in so your loved one can talk to their visitors, rather than just see them.
Motion detection and notifications
This function means someone doesn’t have to ring the doorbell for the camera to know they are there. Many models also let you select where you want motion detected (focusing on the doorstep rather than any cars passing by in the street, for example) and also allow motion sensitivity to be adjusted (so the camera doesn’t pick up the motion of trees moving in the wind, for example).
Remote monitoring and playback
Some video doorbells offer the ability to connect to a smartphone or tablet, allowing seniors to communicate with visitors remotely whilst keeping the device with them anywhere in the home, which can be especially useful for those who are unable to get to the door quickly. Remote recording features are also useful, giving the option to record videos and messages for later playback.
The best doorbells for elderly home security
Remo+ RemoBell S is a great option for the elderly. It has a wide viewing angle, customisable motion zones, and excellent night vision capabilities. The device can be controlled via a smartphone app or an optional wireless chime for added convenience.
Ring Video Doorbell 4. Powered by either batteries or mains electricity the Ring Video Doorbell 4 comes with colour video in 1080p HD resolution, night vision, in-built motion sensors, mobile-connected notifications with two-way communication, and is Alexa compatible.
Wyze Video Doorbell Pro is competitively priced and features a 2k resolution video image, a 150-degree field of view camera lens, free cloud storage and is battery-powered.
Arlo Video Doorbell is an easy-to-install doorbell system at the lower price point. It has a wide-view angle camera, night vision, two-way audio, a wired doorbell and a built-in siren function to deter unwanted visitors.
Eufy Security Video Doorbell can be mains or battery-powered (with a long battery life of 4 months). It includes a motion sensor, smart movement detection, and activity zones. The Eufy is compatible with Alexa and Google Home systems and has local storage options so video recordings can be saved directly to a local device rather than cloud storage.
Additional home security tips
Security and safety is a concern for all elderly people who live alone. Add these extra security features to your elderly loved one’s home for even greater peace of mind:
Adequate outdoor lighting around the property can deter criminals and make the home less appealing as a target. Install motion-sensor lights near entrances, walkways, and other vulnerable areas to add extra protection. Using timers on external and internal lighting is also useful.
Sturdy locks and deadbolts on windows and doors give additional security while security films can be added to doors or windows to allow ventilation whilst excluding entry.
Store valuable items, such as cash, jewellery, and important documents, in a secure safe. Even better, remove them from the home and keep them in a bank vault or a trusted family member’s home safe.
Medical alert systems can be invaluable for the elderly. These systems are usually wearable devices that can be activated to alert emergency services or a designated contact in an emergency.
Keep emergency contact numbers easily accessible in your elderly loved one’s home, and also your own. These can include other family members, neighbours, healthcare providers and local emergency services.
Live-in care with Country Cousins
If your elderly loved one could benefit from some extra support in their daily life and you worry about their safety and security then live-in care could be a huge help. At Country Cousins, we have been providing high-quality live-in care to the elderly in the comfort of their own homes since 1959. Our flexible home care options support independent living through compassionate and professional care.
If you think your loved one could benefit from the care and companionship of a live-in carer get in touch with us today. Our friendly care team is available to take your call on 01293 224706 Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm. Alternatively, fill in our online enquiry form and we will be in touch with you soon.
