Using technology to support people with dementia

Technology can support individuals with dementia to live well, independently, and safely. New systems are regularly being developed to help ease some of the challenges and stresses associated with dementia symptoms. With this in mind, we are looking briefly at how technology could help make life easier for dementia patients, allowing people to continue living life independently and to the fullest.

 

How can technology support people with dementia?

Technology can provide new systems and solutions to help dementia patients retain their independence, such as specialist software to ensure that dementia patients can live happily without fear of forgetting something important – this new development could revolutionise the way that we treat dementia going forwards.

 

How assistive technology can help

Numerous technologies on the market can potentially help dementia patients, below are a handful of innovations that are available with dementia patients in mind.

 

Adapted telephones

The majority of people diagnosed with dementia are over 65 years old and unsurprisingly, many of these individuals find it more comfortable to use a traditional landline phone than a mobile. However, when it comes to staying in touch, this can complicate things; after all, forgetting a number you’ve dialled hundreds of times can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, new adapted telephones now feature larger dials and “frequently dialled number” systems to make it easier for dementia patients to keep in touch with their loved ones.

 

GPS watches

Physical activity has been shown to slow the progression of dementia, but one of the biggest challenges many people with dementia face is a fear of getting lost and this can prevent people being as active as they are physically able to be. Fortunately, watches with GPS systems are now available to help provide emergency back-up, allowing the wearer to share their current location or call for support if they find themselves unable to get back on track.

 

Reminder clocks

It is common for dementia patients to experience anxiety about forgetting their normal activities or routines. Fortunately, reminder clocks offer a highly versatile solution, giving dementia patients a gentle reminder about their tasks for the day. It’s a very simple yet effective solution to help ensure anxiety doesn’t begin to build up – providing peace of mind that regular activities like taking medication continue.

 

Motion sensors

Motion sensors are very effective for supporting people with dementia with their independence. These systems are able to track motion, allowing the unit to monitor someone whether they are active to ensure they haven’t had an accident while living independently. If there is a change in activity levels the system can pick this up.

 

Lifelines

No matter how independent individuals want to be, from time to time, they still need support from loved ones or professionals. Fortunately, lifelines can help with this, offering an immediate 24/7 alarm monitoring service to ensure dementia patients get help as soon as possible, if they need it. This reduces the need for a carer to stay with someone all the time to watch over them, and allows people to lead an independent, active lifestyle.

 

Final thoughts

It is safe to say that with the number of people living with dementia increasing in line with the ageing population that the expanding need for solutions to support people is ever-growing. The Alzheimer’s Society predicts that around 1.6 million people will be living with dementia by 2040. Fortunately, this is where assistive technologies can help, and solutions such as those we have outlined above can go a long way to making life easier for people with dementia and their families.

To find out more about how Delta Wellbeing can support you and your loved ones with bespoke solutions contact us at 0300 333 2222. Living in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire or Ceredigion? Then try our Delta CONNECT service FREE (T&Cs) to receive a flexible support package which includes a wellbeing assessment, pro-active wellbeing calls, digital support, help to re-engage with the community and access to a 24/7 community response service.