Seniors living with dementia require more assistance as the disorder progresses. Family caregivers are often close by to lend a hand. However, there are several technological gadgets available that also help seniors with dementia throughout the day, enabling them to stay safer and have some measure of independence.
1. Digital Clocks
In the early phase of dementia, seniors can benefit from using clocks featuring large digital readouts of the time, date, month, and day of the week. The clocks also differentiate between AM and PM. The large display is ideal for older adults with visual impairment and is visible at night.
Alternatives include talking clocks. When date and time no longer have meaning for a senior with dementia, some devices simply state when it’s morning, afternoon, late afternoon, or night.
2. GPS Trackers
As dementia progresses, seniors can easily become lost when they leave their homes unaccompanied. A GPS tracking device in a senior’s possession enables family members to quickly locate their loved one via a downloadable app. The gadgets range from bracelets and watches to tags.
Caring for seniors with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Fremont families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores.
3. Motion-Activated Vocal Alerts
This product enables a family caregiver to record a message his or her loved one hears when the device detects motion. When these devices are strategically placed around the home, the senior receives different alerts. The gadgets can be placed by doors to caution seniors not to go outside alone. In the bedroom, the message might remind the senior to return to bed when it’s nighttime.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elder care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
4. Picture Phones
Traditional and mobile phones make calling easier by assigning a single number to each contact. However, seniors with dementia may not remember the person associated with the assigned number. A picture phone is a good alternative. The numbers are assigned as with any other phone, but each number displays a picture of the person assigned to the number. The phones also feature a 911 emergency button.
5. Simple Radios
Seniors with dementia often enjoy listening to music. However, they may forget how to use a standard radio or stereo system. A one-button radio allows a caregiver to remove the face and program the radio station and volume control. The senior then needs to merely push one button to play music.
6. Basic TV Remotes
At first glance, these devices display the on/off button, directional channel arrows, and volume up/down buttons. However, the covers slide back to enable caregivers to program TVs as desired.
7. Talking Photo Albums
Short-term memory gradually and progressively fades as dementia progresses. A talking photo album is ideal for remembering family members and special events. The albums hold up to 20 images and 200 minutes of speech. The device can also use pictures and recorded instructions to help seniors remember how to use common household items.
Tech devices can enhance safety and quality of life for seniors with dementia, and so can having a trained caregiver close by. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care. Families trust Assisting Hands Home Care Fremont to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (510) 270-4948 to schedule a free in-home consultation.
