Dementia is one of that disease that is incurable. This means people suffering from dementia must forever live with the symptoms. The disease can be frightening for both the loved ones and caregivers living with the disease.
Managing the different behaviour of people suffering from dementia is difficult. However, the advancement in technology can ease anxiety and establish a routine to improve the quality of life of the aging group.
Using technology in everyday life helps to maintain safety and independence. Hence, NDIS assistive technology is introduced to promote independence, autonomy, and potential safety risk.
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Explore how NDIS assistive technology can revolutionize dementia care, promoting safety, independence, and peace of mind for caregivers and patients.
What is assistive technology?
The technology can be anything, it can be a piece of equipment, item, software program, or any system that is used to improve the capabilities and functionalities of any disabled person.
- A communication board made from cardboard.
- A special program or software integrated feature computer.
- Hardware, devices, mounting systems, or prosthetics.
- A communication program or a screen reader.
- Inclusive learning material or curriculum aids.
- A specialized circular software.
- Power-equipped wheelchairs, electronic devices, braces, educational software, head trackers, and more.
The equipment is designed for those people who have difficulty remembering, writing, speaking, hearing, and learning.
How do you select the right kind of assistive technology?
Consulting with a team of professionals and trainers is a must, as they know the suitability and needs. An AT professional team includes doctors, rehabilitation engineers, therapists, and other representatives.
Who can pay for Assistive Technology?
ATs can cost you nothing or a whopping amount of money. For instance;
- Special Government programs (veteran’s benefits, social security) pay for certain assistive technology.
- School systems pay for special education learning materials.
- Private health insurance may pay for the doctor-prescribed AT.
- Employers may pay AT so that their employees can perform every essential job.
6 technological innovations are offered to caregivers and people suffering from Dementia;
1. Communication aid
Connecting with the community for a quality life is essential. As stated by the research, people suffering from Dementia can recall the events even though they forget faces. Technology has made them stay connected with their loved ones. Adapted telephones (smartphones) can be pre-programmed with the most dialled numbers. Using Skype and FaceTime is another great way to remain in touch with distant relatives.
2. GPS & tracking device
We all know the scenario faced by Alzheimer’s disease and how it can erase memory. The distortion of the disease often leads them to wander, a serious concern for the family members and caregivers, who are worried about losing their loved ones.
GPS and location-tracking devices are a great option for wanderers. The device can be added with alert systems that can make caregivers aware of their patients. The technology can also be useful to alert emergency personnel.
3. Monitoring Device
A home monitoring device allows for controlling indoor temperature, lights and other safety measures that will send alerts through smartphones. A great option for caregivers who want to ensure the safety of their patients.
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4. CCTV cameras
An indoor camera covering the spaces of the entire house is another great option to ensure safety. Keeping the lenses focused in the main rooms keeps the caregiver stress free. The surveillance camera allows you to keep track of the movement of your loved ones and send you alerts if no movements are detected for a certain time period.
5. Medication management
A simple pillbox marked with medicines that are to be consumed on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. A high-tech pill dispenser shall remind caregivers to give medicine to their patients. Some reminders include vibrating alarms, which are reliable and trustworthy.
6. Message services
Reminders can protect their loved ones. Messages are recorded and played on the device at the appropriate time. For example, the caregiver, after the end of their time, can feed in time to alert the patient or their loved ones to consume medicine. Messages can be added to the device, depending on the rituals and activities of people.
Another example includes a reminder message to lock the front gate after they leave their home. The technology is suitable for both caregivers and patients. Other services include reminding of appointments, closing the door, going to bed, eating healthy food, and offering reassurance.
Technology has started to offer multiple options and applications to the aging sector. The key agenda of technology development is to figure out future implications and directions. The researchers have figured out the main domains of technology development resulting in
- Diagnosis, assessment, and monitoring
- Maintenance of function
- Caregiving and management
- Leisure and activity
Wise Choice in Home Care Sydney has been giving outstanding caregiving service. With the intention of spreading smiles to each of our patients, we have hired professional caregivers who are aware of the changing behaviour. Besides caregiving services, we have aged care services, NDIS services, Consumer Directed Care, and Disability service.
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