Memory Loss – Assistive Technology to help you

Memory Loss – Assistive Technology To Help You

Memory loss is often the first sign of problems concerning Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of Dementia.

It is a frightening experience for the person and can make them feel fearful or unsafe. Thankfully there are practical supports, technology and equipment, both high & low tech, available to help people remain independent and safe at home.

 

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is any equipment, device or software, to help people work around their challenges. These can be straightforward low tech items or gadgets, or they can be highly technical devices.

 

Low Tech / No Tech Aids To Reduce Stress

  • Things kept in the same place as part of your routine, e.g. keys, journal
  • Routine – keep to it and use a journal or diary as part of the routine
  • An Alarm Clock/Kitchen Timer – write down why you have set the time
  • A Calendar so you & family members can note important things/events
  • A whiteboard/blackboard for messages to remind yourself.
  • Electronic Display Calendar Clock

 

Useful Aids for Memory & Recall

1. Mobile Phone

  • Calendar function on the display screen to remind you of the day and date.
  • Voice Recorders and Alarms – useful for medication reminders and other reminder messages
  • Visual Calendar can take notes, e.g. meeting someone, dentist appointment
  • Get places to text reminder of appointments, e.g. hairdresser/beautician.
  • Cameras – everyone relies on these, e.g. where you parked before going on holiday!
  • Specialised apps can be used for a range of things, e.g. to record your life story using a type of diary, relaxation apps to manage stress.

 

2. ‘Talking’ Reminder Devices

These detect movement nearby, and you can record a message to play as you approach. A good idea is to place near the front door to remind you to lock the door and take the keys. Or at the kitchen door – to remind you to check nothing is left on or plugged in.

 

3. GPS Devices/Locators

These are handy – to find your mobile or attach to keys or in your wallet. You’ll need to keep the locator in a routine place and write that down on your information board!

 

4. Sensors/Timers for lights

These automatically turn on as you pass & go off when no movement or timed lights indicate to you that it’s evening time.

 

Useful Resources

A Dementia Specialist nurse leads our care team. Our staff receive regular training on Alzheimer’s strategies and helping people with memory loss. If you require further information or further advice please feel free to contact the office directly.

 

Alzheimer and Dementia Care Services