The Best Gadgets for People with Dementia

How Can Gadgets Help People with Dementia? 

Dementia is the collective name given to the symptoms of different diseases, including Alzheimer's, which affect cognitive function. Over time, the progression of dementia can make it harder to think and remember things that would once have been second nature. When this happens, specialist equipment can be really helpful in offering support. From purpose-designed walking aids to memory supports to useful kitchen utensils, they come in a wide range of forms to make life that little bit easier.  

If you are looking to purchase gadgets for people with dementia, then there are a number of options you can consider. Equipment isn’t always expensive; however, if you would like to seek financial help, there may be funding avenues to help you on the way. You can often apply for help from your local council or NHS, and you can also apply for grants from accredited, NHS-recommended bodies such as Independence at Home.

This registered charity offers grants and assistance for disabled people and those living with long-term illnesses such as dementia. 

Types of Gadgets for People with Dementia  

There are lots of types of gadgets for people living with dementia. Especially effective when used early on, they can prove to be incorporated into daily routines to make dementia and its challenges more manageable. Here are some of the best.

  
Memory Aids 

One of the most difficult aspects of dementia is the effect that it has on cognitive function, making it harder to recall people, places and memories over time. Even daily routines can become challenging to navigate, which is why memory aids are really useful.

For the best types of gadgets, look at things like white boards, diaries and calendars. Simple and effective, these different mediums encourage list writing and help to keep track of dates, times and appointments. The NHS also recommends label makers as useful additions to the household.

With a label maker, cupboards, drawers and belongings can be clearly signed to highlight their contents or purpose. 

Day-to-Day

 
If you are considering the best gadgets for people with dementia, a range of household tools are available that help with day-to-day tasks. From clocks with large faces, to devices that help you to put on socks, to TV and light remotes with fewer buttons, these household gadgets have an array of great functions that make daily routines less challenging.

Particularly useful, mobility supports such as tray trolleys can make it much easier to transport food and belongings. Meanwhile, perching stools are also a great idea when strategically placed around the home to provide somewhere comfortable for rest and support.

To help with medication, pill organising boxes, or dosette boxes, are recommended by the NHS. With specific compartments for each day of the week, these boxes can remind whether medication needs to be, or has already been, taken. Automatic pill dispensers are also available and can be pre-set to offer exactly the right dose of medication at certain times each day. 

Cooking and Eating  

For those living with dementia, maintaining a sense of independence is really important. This is even more so when combined with passions and hobbies, such as cooking and enjoying favourite meals.

To help with the impact on coordination and dexterity that dementia can have, there are certain kitchen gadgets that have many uses. These can include specialised cutlery with easy-to-grip handles, non-spill cups, one-way straws, non-slip rubber gloves, safety kettle tippers, and equipment grip extensions.

For further ideas, you can also choose cutlery and crockery that contrasts in colour with each other and the tablecloth so that edges can be more easily defined. For peace of mind, gas safety valves for gas ovens and hobs can be installed to ensure gas isn’t accidentally turned or left on. 

Bathing and Washing  

When it comes to bathing and washing, there is a large amount of supportive equipment available. When considering the best gadgets for those living with dementia, look for devices that make routines safer and easier, such as transfer benches, grab rails, grippy bath mats, and bath steps.

For those with mobility issues, hoists can also be employed to help with getting in and out of bathtubs. To add additional comfort, bath seats and bath boards make sitting upright easier, while safety plugs can be used to limit how much water is in the tub.

To help with going to the toilet, a raised toilet seat can make getting up and down less challenging, meanwhile, commodes, bed pans and waterproof mattresses and protectors can make life easier too. 

Exercise and Mobility  

Exercise and mobility supports are some of the best gadgets for people with dementia. Helping with exercise and moving around on a daily basis, they offer a means to keeping both active and independent.

Of the equipment recommended by the NHS and Dementia UK, walking sticks, frames and wheelchairs have lots of benefits and can also be coupled with things like wheelchair ramps and stairlifts. Transfer aids can be used to help move from one place to another, while hoists, pulleys and slings have many advantages for those who are struggling.

For furniture considerations, electric recliner chairs and height-adjustable beds are great additions to the home. Comfortable and easy to use, they can be raised and lowered to make life’s moments more manageable throughout the day.  

Personal Alarms 

Some of the best gadgets for people with dementia and their loved ones, personal alarms are specialised types of assistive technology. Devices that help to keep those living with dementia safe at home and outside, these personal alarms and monitoring systems can be installed as safety precautions.

In the case that any problems do arise, they can be used to alert call centres or carers and notify loved ones too. Recommended by the NHS, the Telecare Services Association can be contacted for a range of safety monitoring products and services.  

Wisteria Care Home 

If you find you need extra help and support, at Wisteria Care Home we provide a safe and welcoming environment for those living with dementia. Rated CQC Outstanding, we specialise in providing the highest quality care for those in need.