Helping People With Memory Problems Stay Independent

This week is Dementia Action Week, which is an Alzheimer's Society initiative to help raise awareness of both dementia and Alzheimer's.

One in six of us will get dementia before we turn 80  and more people fear dementia than cancer, but many people still do not understand the disease, or know what to expect. Dementia is a progressive disease, but with help and early intervention it is possible for people to remain independent for many years.

Dementia is a major cause of loneliness. One problem is that many people are afraid of saying the wrong thing to somebody with dementia, and this often results in reduced visits and less interaction - this leads to isolation, loneliness and depression.

As part of Dementia Action Week, the Alzheimer's Society has released a video of children asking dementia patients questions - the message is simply "Let's Start Talking #AskUsAnything" - you can ask anything, and have a bit of fun with it. You can watch it here. 

Aids To Help Care For a Person With Dementia

Dementia can be very challenging for both the individual and family members and carers. The following CareCo dementia aids are designed to help patients and their carers to continue to enjoy a quality of life.

Med-Alert Pill Box with Timer

Med-Alert Pill Box with Timer allows you to set a reminder for when to take pills. It is great for those that struggle with remembering routine tasks, although it does still require self-management.

The box is easy to set up and has an alarm that beeps for 30 seconds when it is time to take a pill

Clear Display LCD Clock

People with dementia have trouble with memory and planning and get easily confused. No matter how old you are, you will organise your life around times and dates – for medication, appointments, and personal errands.

This LCD clock in the range of CareCo dementia aids displays all information clearly – the day, date, month, year, and time – in a large format so it’s useful for people with eyesight difficulty too.

With the push of a button, it updates automatically based on data transmitted with digital radio signals, so you never need to worry about correcting it following a power cut. Multiple alarms allow the user to plan their day effectively.

Easi 123 Big Button Telephone

A telephone remains a lifeline for many people, especially for those who do not have or need a smartphone. The extra features on the Easi 123 Big Button Telephone make it ideal for people with dementia related conditions. It has large, clear buttons, a flashing light, high ringer volume and can store 10 numbers.

Although challenging, it is possible to live a better life with dementia - careful planning and regular checks are needed. if you know somebody with dementia take the time to speak to them, ask how they are, and check that they are taking any medication that they need.