Understanding Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of progressive neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to carry out everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, but other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing, but the risk increases significantly with age. Symptoms develop gradually and worsen over time, often affecting a person’s independence, safety, and quality of life.
Supporting People with Dementia to Live at Home Longer
For many people, remaining in their own home is vital for maintaining independence, dignity, and emotional wellbeing. Familiar surroundings can reduce confusion, anxiety, and distress — all of which can worsen dementia symptoms.
However, living at home can present challenges, including:
- Memory loss leading to missed medication or appointments
- Increased risk of falls or wandering
- Difficulty managing daily routines
- Reduced ability to recognise emergencies
This is where assistive and smart technologies can play a crucial role, and here at Care Direct 24/7 we can provide help and support.
How Technology Can Help
Modern dementia-friendly technologies are designed to enhance safety, promote independence, and provide reassurance to families and carers. When introduced early and tailored to individual needs, technology can help people with dementia remain at home longer, safer, and with a better quality of life, and here at care Direct 24/7 we can help.
Examples include:
- Smart detectors and sensors to detect falls, movement, or unusual behaviour
- GPS tracking and door alerts to reduce risks associated with wandering
- Smoke and flood alarms for early warning and automatic alerts to protect users and their homes from potential hazards.