Dementia is a condition that causes the loss of cognitive function and behavioral abilities. Many aging adults with dementia have difficulty remembering important details, solving problems, and taking care of themselves. Recent technological advances have made it possible for caregivers to help their aging loved ones with dementia live richer, fuller lives. If your loved one has dementia, these seven innovations may help as you care for him or her.
1. In-Home Cameras
When you must be away from your loved one, in-home cameras focused on certain areas in the home, such as the kitchen or the living room, can reassure you that your loved one is taking medications as prescribed, eating regularly, and staying safe. Some devices will allow you to talk with your loved one to check in on him or her throughout the day.
2. Dementia Clocks
Many aging adults with dementia feel anxiety when they don’t know if it’s morning or night. Clocks designed for those with dementia can help seniors tell the time and provide structure when setting up a routine. Adding a picture next to the times your loved one needs to eat, take medications, exercise, or go to sleep can help with time management.
3. Amazon Echo or Google Home Mini
Seniors with dementia often repeat the same questions over and over, get anxious when loved ones aren’t around, and need to stay busy. Though they can’t replace actual human contact, these voice-activated devices can answer basic questions, play music, tell riddles and jokes, read books, and report on traffic and weather. You can also set alarms to remind your loved one to take medications, eat lunch, or brush his or her teeth.
4. Tracking Devices
A common concern of people who care for aging parents with dementia is that their parents may wander off and become lost. A tracking device with GPS location information can be worn as a necklace or on the wrist. If your loved one wanders off, he or she can be easily tracked and found.
High-tech safety devices can be helpful for aging adults, but those with serious health conditions may also need the assistance of professional caregivers. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Naples, FL, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
5. Electrical Appliance Monitoring
If your loved one is in the early stages of dementia, he or she may still be able to cook independently. However, your loved one may forget to turn off the iron or stove, which could pose a risk to his or her health. Monitoring devices for electrical appliances work by being plugged into power strips or wall outlets. They send alerts when commonly used appliances are turned on or aren’t turned off.
Appliance monitors can reduce the risk of injuries from electrical fires or hot surfaces, which can also be mitigated by having the assistance of a professional caregiver. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional Home Care Naples seniors can trust and rely on.
6. Pill Dispensers
It can be easy for anyone to occasionally forget to take a medication, but it can be especially problematic for those with dementia. Pillboxes labeled with the days of the week can be set up ahead of time to help your loved one keep track of medications. High-tech pill dispensers are designed to dispense medications at certain times to ensure too many aren’t taken at once.
7. Communication Devices
Technology has made it possible for seniors to stay in touch with family members in case of emergency and to be able to talk and make new memories. Adapted telephones can make communication easier with large buttons and preprogrammed numbers so your loved one can talk to others even if he or she forgets their numbers.
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 homecare. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today to schedule a free consultation.
