Near Miss Day, marking March 23, 1989, when a mountain-sized asteroid passed within 500,000 miles of Earth, close enough to make anyone think about being better prepared. It’s a good reminder that near misses happen closer to home too, and seniors have some great tech options to stay ahead of them.

Medical alert devices and fall-detection wearables can automatically send emergency alerts even if you can’t press a button. Severe-weather apps and automated check-in texts add another layer of safety that lets seniors stay independent without relying on others to notice a problem.

A near miss is only a good outcome if you’re ready for the next one.