Safety is a paramount concern for dementia patients. Technology offers innovative solutions in this area. Smart home devices, equipped with sensors and cameras, can monitor a person’s activities, detect falls, and alert caregivers to potential emergencies. GPS trackers can provide peace of mind by allowing caregivers to locate loved ones with dementia who may wander. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches, can monitor vital signs and provide location tracking.

The really big development here is networks, specifically broadband internet and home routers with WiFi and the growing array of smart connected home devices. Just some of the home devices that can be connected to the web and thus controlled remotely include:

• Power sockets
• Lights
• Heating thermostats
• Clocks and alarms
• Cameras, sound sensors and doorbells
• Tablet dispensers
• Tracking tags

An aid to carers?

Technology also plays a crucial role in supporting caregivers. Caregiver support apps offer information, resources, and a community for sharing experiences. Automated medication dispensers can help ensure adherence to medication schedules. Cameras can provide safety for both the carer and the carer. Along with remote connected devices these can reduce the need for impromptu visits.

Changes are not always well received.

While technology offers immense potential, it’s essential to approach its implementation thoughtfully. Not all individuals with dementia will be comfortable or receptive to technology. Introducing it gradually and with patience is crucial, ensuring it enhances, rather than hinders, their well-being. Moreover, technology should complement, not replace, human care and support.

Lifeline is one of the best-known support aids for not just those with dementia but the elderly in general. It is a network box that connects to the broadband router or via a mobile phone network sim card router and then wirelessly connects to a button on a lanyard or a wrist strap. The wearer can activate the alarm by pressing the button, or with the latest versions, an alarm is automatically triggered when a fall is sensed. 

A camera system is a very effective aid in supporting someone with dementia for several reasons, including:

• A camera system protects both the carer and the cared for. 
• It helps the carer/family member work out where things might have been misplaced.
• A doorbell camera massively improves security and helps manage appointments.
• Anyone who cares for someone with dementia knows how worrying it can be if you can’t raise them, for example, when they are not answering the phone. A camera system will allow you to look in on them and check their welfare without the frantic drive. 
• A well-positioned camera will allow you to see what is on the TV screen. This can help when someone is struggling to operate the TV. Being able to see the screen will give you insight into what the problem or error might be. 

Installing a camera system requires permission from the person. This permission should ideally be witnessed by an adult social service professional or clinician, such as a psychiatrist.

This is a no-brainer if the person you are supporting/caring for struggles with managing the thermostat. Not only are they very easy to use, but they can also be controlled remotely. The settings also allow you to lock out access to the advanced settings, so they can’t be messed with.

This is another no-brainer. Not only do these alarms alert anyone within the space of the fire, but they can also alert you as the carer. With fire, time is everything and these alarms can make all the difference. 

Anyone who supports someone with dementia knows keeping track of time can be difficult for them. But also how important a regular routine is. People who suffer from dementia can struggle not only to read clocks but also to set alarms. Clocks like the SmartCuckoo clock allow you to set alarms and reminders remotely. Very handy. 

Tools like Teamviewer, which are free, allow you to take control of someone else’s computer. This is very handy if someone is struggling with a computer problem and is not very local to you. Once set up with auto-connect, you will be able to go into their computer and make changes, diagnose problems and set up communication apps like email.