Technology to Help Folks with Dementia via Aging and Health Technology Watch
I have a lot of respect and admiration for Laurie Orlov who is an industry consultant and recognized expert on technology for aging in place . I've had the opportunity to meet Laurie a number of times and to present in conferences with her. I read her blog religiously (you can find her Aging and Health Technology Watch by clicking here ).
The Early Stage Of Dementia
. In the early stages, families will worry. A family member may say or forget things that make them wonder if it’s dementia or just a normal part of aging. They should consider persuading their loved one to get an evaluation from a professional. If their loved one is hesitant, a
self-assessment
could be used to encourage a visit to a professional. A doctor can help determine the type and stage of dementia and whether it is likely to be
Alzheimer’s disease or some other type
. If it is Alzheimer’s disease (
60-80% of those with dementia
), there is typically a slow progression over time. The chances are good that their family member can remain at home through early stages, even continuing to live alone. Even after a diagnosis, they'll continue to wonder whether it really is dementia and look for another test they
can do at home .
But maybe they'll also be concerned with the day-to-day activities of daily living (
ADLs
), especially if their loved one is living alone. Perhaps there is an unrelated health issue, and they're concerned about whether he/she is taking medications correctly or making it to medical appointments. Issues such as these can be addressed with calendar or reminder technologies.
Tech for the early stage . If their loved one lives with them, they may want to acquire motion sensors or a smart doorbell to know when their loved one is out of bed or near the door. If their family member is still driving, a smart phone app for turn-by-turn directions as well as a “wearable” to help their loved one find his/her way. Finally, families may want to focus on maintaining their loved one's quality of life at home, introducing smart speakers to play music at scheduled times, or even storytelling technology to help their loved one talk about themselves and their lives, which can be a comfort.
Needs of the Early stage
Tech Categories
Examples
Activities of daily living
Motion sensors Medication reminders Smart doorbells Smart thermostats
GreatCall Lively Home MedMinder , PillPack Ring Nest
At home
Smart Speakers Smartphone assistants Memory/Stories Caregiving and Family Support
Amazon Echo, Dot Google Assistant , Siri , Alexa MemoryWell LifePod , SharetheCare , LotsaHelpingHands
Wandering/driving
GPS...
