We're raising alarms about AI companions and what they're doing to teenagers. But when the person holding the device is elderly or living with cognitive decline, that concern seems to quietly disappear. As family caregivers, we deserve to ask the same hard questions about consent, data privacy, and the difference between real connection and simulated connection — regardless of who the technology is being marketed to. This post is not about fear. It's about being a thoughtful, informed consumer of care technology, and demanding that the companies building these products be ready to have that conversation too.

Caregiving technology can increase safety, but sometimes at the cost of privacy and independence. Here’s how to navigate those difficult decisions with clarity and compassion.

Care technology does not have to be complicated. At its core, it is simply any tool that helps caregiving feel more manageable, organized, connected, or less overwhelming.

Overwhelmed by care tech? Start here. A gentle overview of what care tech is, what’s actually useful, and how to try one small thing without adding more stress.