Back

Case study: Peace of mind for Eric’s family

Vascular dementia sufferer Eric lives alone. He also has hearing difficulties.

But despite this, Eric, who engages in the Fulfilled Lives project*, likes to live as independently as possible.

Physically well and fit, he enjoys walking, often visiting his daughter who lives nearby. He also likes to go for long walks early morning when he wakes up.

To ensure his safety, Eric has an OYSTA Pearl+ tracking device which he happily wears around his neck on a lanyard. The device is linked to his daughter and son-in-law’s mobile phones enabling them to track Eric's location at any time, should they have any concerns about his whereabouts. The family are also prompted via text message when the device is switched off - or when the battery is low - so they can support Eric to use it correctly. There is also an SOS button on the device should Eric require help when he is out and about.

Due to his dementia, Eric experiences difficulty remembering daily activities, including taking his medication. To assist with this, his family use medication dispensers to remind him when his medication is due.

In addition to the above devices, Eric's family also utilise door sensors on the front door, which are only activated during night time. The sensor is linked to one of our Delta Wellbeing lifelines which goes through to our team's 24/7 monitoring centre. If, at any point during the night, the sensor is activated one of the team's Advisors then contacts the on-site carers as a precaution to check on his welfare.

Through the combined use of these technology enabled care devices, Eric has been able to carry on living an independent lifestyle, whilst providing his family with complete peace of mind.

*The Fulfilled Lives project supports those living with dementia and cognitive impairment to maintain their independence and stay connected to their communities. The aim is to put people at the centre of provision and to make sure that support is not only tailored to the individual but utilises the assets of the community and wider support networks for a holistic support approach.

Traditional services often tend to focus on physical care rather than emotional, social or economic wellbeing - this project embeds prevention at its core and promotes independent living though a structured and evidence-based approach.