Technology plays an increasingly vital role in dementia care, offering innovative solutions to manage Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) and improve the quality of life for seniors. From safety devices to cognitive apps, technological tools can provide significant support to caregivers and help your loved one live more independently. Home Instead is here to guide you through the benefits of technology in dementia care and recommend useful apps and devices.
How Technological Tools Can Assist in Managing BPSD
Enhancing Safety:
Technology can help ensure the safety of your loved one, reducing anxiety and stress for both seniors and caregivers. Devices like GPS trackers and emergency alert systems can provide peace of mind and quick assistance in case of emergencies.
Example: Use a wearable GPS tracker to monitor your loved one’s location and ensure they can be quickly found if they wander.
Promoting Routine and Structure:
Apps and devices that offer reminders and scheduling can help maintain a consistent daily routine, reducing confusion and agitation.
Example: Utilize a smart home assistant to set reminders for medications, meals, and activities.
Facilitating Communication:
Technology can bridge communication gaps, especially for seniors who struggle with verbal expression. Communication apps can help them stay connected with family and friends, alleviating feelings of isolation.
Example: Use video calling apps to enable regular face-to-face communication with family members, even from a distance.
Providing Cognitive Stimulation:
Cognitive training apps and games can help maintain and enhance cognitive function, offering engaging activities that challenge the brain.
Example: Incorporate brain training apps that offer puzzles and memory games to keep your loved one mentally active.
Managing Medications:
Medication management apps can ensure your loved one takes their medications correctly and on time, reducing the risk of missed doses or errors.
Example: Set up a medication reminder app that alerts your loved one when it’s time to take their medications.
Recommendations for Useful Apps and Devices
GPS Trackers and Safety Devices:
- AngelSense: A GPS tracker designed specifically for seniors with dementia, providing real-time location tracking and alerts for wandering.
- MedicAlert Safely Home: A bracelet that combines medical information with GPS tracking, helping locate and assist your loved one quickly.
Reminder and Scheduling Apps:
- Google Calendar: A versatile scheduling app that can set reminders for daily activities, appointments, and medications.
- CareZone: An app that helps manage medications, appointments, and health information, providing reminders and tracking features.
Communication Apps:
- Skype: A user-friendly video calling app that enables face-to-face communication with family and friends.
- Marco Polo: A video messaging app that allows for asynchronous communication, letting your loved one send and receive messages at their convenience.
Cognitive Training Apps:
- Lumosity: Offers a variety of brain training games designed to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
- MindMate: Provides cognitive exercises, physical workouts, and nutrition advice tailored for seniors with dementia.
Medication Management Apps:
- Medisafe: A comprehensive medication reminder app that alerts users when it’s time to take their medications and tracks adherence.
- Pill Reminder by Medisafe: Another excellent app for managing medications, with features like refill reminders and a medication diary.
How Home Instead Can Help
Home Instead offers comprehensive support to help you integrate technology into the care plan for your loved one with dementia. Our services include:
- Technology Integration: Assisting with setting up and using various technological tools and apps to enhance care and safety.
- Personalized Care Plans: Developing care plans incorporating technology to address specific needs and preferences.
- Professional Caregivers: Our trained caregivers can help monitor and manage technological devices, ensuring they are used effectively.
- Resource Access: Helping you find and utilize the best technological tools and community resources to support your loved one.
Incorporating technology into your loved one’s care plan can significantly enhance their safety, cognitive health, and overall well-being. Home Instead is dedicated to providing the care and resources needed to effectively manage BPSD and improve the quality of life for your family member with dementia.
Works Cited
Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health. Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: Clinical Practice Guidelines. CCSMH, March 2024.