Technology Helps Seniors with Memory Issues to Stay Informed and Connected

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are 6.5 million Americans over the age of 65 currently living with Alzheimer’s disease.  You may be one of the more than 11 million people in the United States who are providing care for a parent, grandparent, spouse, or other loved one with memory issues.  Thanks to advances in modern technology, there are ways to help seniors, especially those with dementia or other memory concerns, to stay engaged and help them live their best lives. 
 
One piece of technology that is effective is a clock specifically designed for those with dementia.  Helpful for someone who is starting to forget small things in their daily life as well as someone who has received a diagnosis of a memory issue like Alzheimer’s disease, these clocks are functional as well as a great way to lessen anxiety.  Although they can be analog, the digital style is popular as they can be customized to give the person looking at the clock a wealth of information like the day, date, time, and even tailored details that can display appointments or medication reminders.  Varieties include:

Day clock:  Created to share the day of the week and the time of the day, the bold letters convey whether it is day or night.  

Talking clock:  Using a chime or verbal notification, this choice will share information with audio cues. 

Digital calendar clock: For a loved one who may confuse the time of the year or the current season, this option displays the month, day of the week, current date, and time.  It is ideal for anyone who has a recent diagnosis or is in middle-stage dementia. 

Medication reminder clock: Easily programmed to remind a person to take their medication, it can display or use an audio cue to make sure that the right medication is taken at the right time and limit confusion. 

Digital alarm clock:  Created to help Alzheimer’s patients with large, labeled buttons, it is easier to use this style of a clock and set alarms as well as read the time and other information. 

Another tool that is proven effective to improve the lives of a loved one with dementia is to employ communication aids. Technology has made it easier for seniors to stay engaged and in touch with loved ones both near and far.  Explore the options in adapted telephones that have large buttons and can be programmed with the phone number of family and friends for a less stressful way to communicate.  Video chat brought family members together during the pandemic and beyond and this can help loved ones at a distance to see their loved one often, without the stress and cost of frequent travel. 

For anyone concerned about a loved one with memory concerns, CarePatrol is your trusted resource for senior living options.  We have vetted communities in your area and can match you with the top options that are right for your family.  You’re never alone when CarePatrol is on your side.  Reach out to learn more today.