How Advancing Technology is Supporting Dementia Care
The Growing Role of Technology in Dementia Support
Technology has its place in every walk of life and can make things easier in many circumstances. This is also the case for people living with dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society tell us these include “assistive technology designed to help with problems related to dementia as well as general technology that may be useful.” This can include technology to help someone remain safe in their home and outside; socialising, and carrying out daily activities.
At Helping Hands, we ensure our carers are up to date with technology and are able to use equipment in our customers’ homes to best effect. We achieve this through training and ongoing development, delivered by our branch teams, clinical nurses, and external partner organisations.
Increasing Safety and Independence Through Smart Devices
Technology is increasingly being used in the home to enhance people’s safety, especially for older people and those living with dementia. While we hear a lot about AI and whether it is being used effectively, such technology is often helping to keep people with dementia safe.
GPS Tracking and Location Monitoring
The person may get confused as to their location, or go looking for somewhere that no longer exists and be unable to find their way home. GPS tracking can help locate someone in such circumstances and can be set to alert caregivers if the person leaves a designated safe area.
Fall Detection and Emergency Alert Systems
Wearable technology for fall detection can send alerts to caregivers or emergency services if someone falls. This can save time in the case of an emergency and raise the alarm quickly. Such technology can also offer peace of mind to loved ones, knowing help is at hand.
Smart Home Technology for Everyday Tasks
Smart technology can help people living with dementia to live more independently. By managing aspects of home security, such as smart locks, daily tasks can be simplified. Voice-activated home assistants can control lighting to make an area safer and set reminders too.
Improving Cognitive Health with Innovative Tools
Tools that exist to support cognitive health include puzzles and games, as well as automated home equipment. Calendars can display day, date and time, to help people keep track of what part of the day it is. This is especially useful when the evenings are light or nights get dark early.
Memory Aids and Digital Reminders
Digital reminders can help someone living with dementia to remember to take essential medication or to undertake a necessary task or appointment. Devices such as automatic pill dispensers unlock at pre-set times, or calendar apps on smartphones can be set accordingly.
Brain Games and Cognitive Training Apps
Brain training games and virtual reality are becoming useful as ways to promote cognitive health. Games that encourage memory and attention skills have been found to ‘improve cognitive performance and processing speed in older adults’ according to a 2021 US study.
Supporting Caregivers with Technology
According to a 2020 University of Strathclyde study, “Three out of five people in the UK are expected to be caregivers at some point in their life.” Carer burden, where carers’ needs aren’t met, is well documented and the risk of ‘carer burnout’ a real concern. Technology that can support carers in their roles include:
Explore Expert Dementia Care with Helping Hands
Helping Hands are the UK’s most trusted home care provider because we have a decades-long pedigree of care delivery. By talking to our friendly customer care team, you and your loved ones can learn everything you need to know to make an informed decision about your dementia care. We’ve been established since 1989, with dedicated carers delivering exceptional care to customers across England and Wales, with all of our care services fully regulated by the CQC and CIW.
We listen carefully to how you wish to live, getting to know you and tailoring your care around your existing routines. We are always flexible in our approach, too, so if your needs or condition change, we’ll adapt your care plan accordingly.
