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Technology to Help Folks with Dementia via Health Tech 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 Tracking Fall detection Driving	Philips GoSafe, MobileHelp Philips Auto Alert, FallCall (Apple Watch) Android Auto, Apple CarPlay

The Middle Stage Of Dementia (All Above Plus The Following):

When dementia progresses to the point where a family member is concerned about their loved one getting lost, it may be time for them to discuss whether or not their loved one should be driving and encourage walking, if it’s an option. Their loved one’s loss of independence is difficult to confront, but for safety, it's critical.At that point, a wearable with location tracking may help keep their loved one safe and reduce worry about getting lost near their home. Home safety needs to be addressed as well. Tools such as an automatic stove shutoff and a home alarm system with water detection for faucets that may be left running can help reduce risks. From a health standpoint, it may make sense to have a medication reminder/dispensing system that both alerts about a dosage and only alerts/releases the appropriate medication at the right time.

Needs of the Middle stage	Tech Categories	Examples
Care coordination	Private health websites, managing medications	CaringBridge , CareZone
Wander management	Location tracking tools	iTraq, GPS Smart Sole
Mental stimulation	Music Therapy, Personalized content for Dementia	SingFit, iN2L Focus Tablet
Medication management	Pre-loaded dosages released at specific times	Philips Medication Dispensing, MedMinder Jon
Home safety	When loved one is alone in their home	ADT Water Alarm , Cookstop

The Advanced Stage Of Dementia:

In the more advanced stages of dementia, a loved one might need an in-home care worker while you are out or at work. Or a family member may need to hire a round-the-clock caregiver to help their loved one with meals, showers, dressing and other routines. Installing a remote camera may help provide peace of mind. Families can also consider other tools that help comfort and relax their loved one. An adult day center that can provide a full day of activities and interactions for those with dementia is also a resource.

Needs of the Advanced stage	Tech Categories	Examples
In-home care services	Home care workers for partial day or full day	Home Instead, RightAtHome, ComfortKeepers
Remote monitoring	Cameras, sensors	Best home security seniors
Engaging seniors	Robotic cats, dogs	Ageless Innovations
Bed/chair exit tools	Alerts when a person gets up	Safe Wandering
Adult day centers	Centers trained in dementia care	About Adult Day Centers
Memory care	Specialized units for those with dementia	About Memory Care

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This article, entitled, "Technology to help care for individuals with dementia" first appeared in the Aging and Health Technology Watch blog.

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