There are a wide variety of high- and low-tech devices available that help elders move, function, and stay safely in their homes. Among these:

■ WalkJoy, a noninvasive device that aids in the restoration of gait and balance. This wearable device, which straps around the individual’s leg, sends a signal to healthy nerves around the knee to help promote a normal pattern of gait.

■ GPS shoes, footwear that enables caregivers and families to track the location of people with Alzheimer’s or dementia, have gained attention in recent years. Now, GPS devices in shoe inserts make it possible to use them in any pair of shoes.

■ Bracelets that track seniors’ movements, location, and motion send data to a location where carergivers can view it and receive alerts about pattern changes that might require attention.

■ A “smart” watch that enables two-way voice calls and messaging and doubles as a hands-free phone.

■ “Smart” clothing, including socks, t-shirts, and sports bras, collects heart rate, activity type and level, pressure forces on the foot, and more. These products send data via Bluetooth and enable instant analysis and feedback.

■ Wearable safety phones allow subscribers to enter three email addresses or phone numbers to automatically notify designated individuals when 911 is called from a home phone.

■ Fall-detection sensors detect a fall and send notifications to specified family members and/or friends. A panic button can be pressed in an emergency, and a pre-set timer prevents false alarms.

■ A new robotic mobilization device is designed to replace the traditional wheelchair. It enables the user to move into spaces where a wheelchair wouldn’t fit and easily move up and down.

■ Special skin patches, worn on the upper arm, are connected to a subdermal probe that monitors blood sugar levels. A microchip then transmits data back to a mobile phone and displays a light—red, yellow, or green—that tells the user about the level of blood sugar.

■ Engineers recently created an elder-care robot that reminds users to take their medication and exercise, conducts some routine tasks, and even tells jokes.

■ Motion detectors in mattresses detect nighttime motion and restlessness.

■ Technology designed to help promote medication compliance includes pill dispensers with their own built-in cellular connections that remind users to take their medications and sends out alerts to family members or others when dosages are missed.

■ Medical alarm systems have become more sophisticated. Some have “Onstar” navigation and communication technology so that the user can push a button to get help or ask directions.