If you are living with dementia, or caring for a loved one with dementia, there are a number of different devices which can help day to day living more manageable and less stressful. Here are some of the devices that you might find helpful:
1. Electronic calendars, such as the Google calendar, allow you to set reminders for important events or appointments. This can help you remember things like doctor's appointments or upcoming family visits. Additionally, electronic calendars can send alerts to your phone, making it easier to get reminders even when you're out and about.
2. Memo boards, especially ‘White Boards’ which you can write on and then delete items when they have been completed, can be placed in a visible location in the home, such as on the refrigerator door or near the front door. These boards can be used to write down important notes or reminders, and can be edited as needed. I have one on my desk so that as soon as something pops into my head that I need to do it goes straight on my whiteboard. I can’t tell you how much satisfaction it gives me to erase tasks as they are completed!
3. Medication reminders: there are a variety of devices available that can remind you to take your medication. Sometimes, if you are like me you will need several different ways of being reminded. I set a reminder on my phone, Alexa reminds me, the online pharmacy which sends me my medication reminds me! Even with all those reminders I still forget sometimes – so my back up plan is my husband who checks that I have acted on the prompts! Some devices, such as medication dispensers, will actually dispense the medication at the appropriate time. Others will simply sound an alarm or send a message to your phone indicating it's time to take your medication.
4. Reminder watches: There are a variety of reminder watches available that can be programmed with specific reminders. Some watches will simply vibrate or beep when it's time to do something, while others can display custom messages or symbols to remind the wearer of specific tasks.
5. GPS tracker devices can be worn or attached to clothing or personal items, enabling carers to track the movements and location of their loved one who is living with dementia in real time. Trackers come in many different forms, such as smartwatches, shoe soles, pendants, keychains, etc. If they have a mobile phone and are in the habit of always having it with them, the ‘Find My’ function can be set so that you will be able to see their location. It can be really reassuring knowing that if they decide to go ‘walking’ you will be able to see very easily where they are.
Overall, there are a variety of devices available that can make life just that little bit easier for people living with dementia and their carers. Choosing the right device will depend on someone’s specific needs, preferences and level of cognitive impairment, so it's important to do some research and consult with a professional before making a purchase.