Technology and tools that can help keep your loved one safe

Technology might feel daunting, but the right tools can give you extra peace of mind without making life more complicated. We'll help you navigate the options and find what works for your family's needs and budget. The key is choosing simple, reliable solutions that enhance safety without creating confusion or making your loved one feel like they're being monitored or controlled.

It's worth remembering that technology is just one part of a comprehensive safety approach. The most sophisticated GPS tracker won't help if basic home safety measures aren't in place and the smartest alarm system is useless if it's too complicated for you to operate during a stressful moment. Think of technology as a helpful addition to your safety toolkit rather than a complete solution.

According to Dementia UK, the most successful assistive technology solutions are those that integrate naturally into daily routines without creating additional complexity or anxiety for the person with dementia.

GPS tracking devices: what's available and how they work

GPS tracking technology has improved dramatically in recent years, becoming smaller, more reliable and easier to use. However, not all GPS devices are suitable for people with dementia, and choosing the right one requires careful consideration of your loved one's needs and preferences.

How GPS tracking works

Most GPS trackers designed for dementia care use a combination of GPS satellites, mobile phone networks and sometimes Wi-Fi to pinpoint location. The device sends this information to an app on your phone or computer, allowing you to see where your loved one is in real-time. Some devices also allow you to set up "safe zones" - if the person leaves a predetermined area, you'll receive an automatic alert.

Battery life considerations

One of the most important practical considerations is battery life. Devices that need daily charging can become problematic if the person you care for forgets to charge them or removes them during charging. Look for devices with battery life of at least 3-5 days and consider how easy it is to charge them.

Accuracy and reliability

GPS accuracy can vary depending on location - devices work best outdoors with clear sky view, but may struggle inside buildings or in areas with poor mobile reception. Most quality devices are accurate to within 5-10 metres outdoors, which is usually sufficient for safety purposes.

Wearable vs non-wearable options: pros and cons

The choice between wearable and non-wearable GPS devices often comes down to your loved one's personal preferences and daily habits.

Wearable devices: watches and pendants

GPS watches designed for dementia care often look like regular timepieces but include tracking functionality. Many also include features like emergency buttons, medication reminders and simplified phone functions.

Pros of wearable devices:

• Always with the person when they're moving around

• Often include additional safety features like emergency buttons

• Some models are waterproof for showering

• Can become part of someone's daily routine like any other piece of jewellery

Cons to consider:

• Some people find watches or pendants uncomfortable or forget to wear them

• May be removed during personal care or forgotten after charging

• Can be damaged or lost more easily than fixed devices

• Battery life may be shorter due to size constraints

Non-wearable tracking options

These might include small devices that can be sewn into clothing, placed in bags or attached to wheelchairs or walking aids.

Benefits of non-wearable trackers:

• Less likely to be deliberately removed

• Often have longer battery life

• Can be more discreet

• May be more cost-effective

Potential drawbacks:

• Only track the item they're attached to, not necessarily the person

• May be left behind if attached to clothing that's changed

• Can be harder to locate if the device itself becomes lost

Simple alarm systems for doors and gates

Door and gate alarms can provide an excellent early warning system for wandering behaviour, giving you time to intervene before someone gets too far from home.

Types of door alarms available

Battery-operated magnetic alarms are usually the simplest option - they attach to doors and frames and sound when the magnetic connection is broken. More sophisticated systems can send alerts to your mobile phone, allowing you to be notified even when you're not in the house.

Placement strategies

Consider which doors and exits are most important to monitor. Front doors and garden gates are obvious choices, but you might also want to monitor doors leading to basements, garages or other potentially dangerous areas within your home.

Volume and sound considerations

Choose alarms that are loud enough to hear throughout your home but not so startling that they cause distress. Some systems allow you to adjust volume or choose different alert tones.

Integration with other systems

Some door alarm systems can integrate with broader home security systems or smart home technology, allowing you to monitor multiple access points from a single app or control panel.

Smart home solutions that aren't too smart for their own good

Smart home technology can enhance safety for people with dementia, but it's crucial to choose solutions that are genuinely helpful rather than simply high-tech for the sake of it.

Automated lighting systems

Motion-sensor lights can help prevent falls during night-time wandering and provide gentle illumination that doesn't fully wake someone up. Smart lighting systems can also simulate sunrise and sunset to help maintain natural circadian rhythms, which can help reduce sleep disturbances that often trigger wandering behaviour.

Smart doorbells and cameras

Video doorbells can help you see who's at the door without having to answer it, which can be particularly helpful if your loved one is prone to letting strangers in. Some systems also allow you to speak to visitors remotely, so you can handle deliveries or unexpected callers even when you're not immediately available.

Environmental monitoring

Smart thermostats and air quality monitors can help maintain comfortable living conditions, which may reduce restlessness and agitation that can lead to wandering. Some systems can alert you to sudden temperature changes that might indicate doors or windows have been left open.

Voice-activated assistants

Simple voice assistants can be helpful for people with dementia who struggle with complex interfaces. They can provide reminders, answer basic questions, or even call for help if needed. However, it's important to set these up carefully to avoid confusion or frustration.

Apps that can help with daily routines and safety

Smartphone and tablet apps designed for dementia care can support daily routines and provide additional safety features, though they work best when introduced gradually and with plenty of support.

Medication reminder apps

Apps that provide visual and audio medication reminders can help maintain important routines. Some can even send alerts to family members if medications haven't been taken on schedule.

GPS location sharing apps

Standard smartphone location sharing features can be effective if your loved one is comfortable carrying a mobile phone and remembers to keep it charged. These are often more cost-effective than dedicated GPS devices, though they may be less reliable.

Emergency contact apps

Simplified contact apps can make it easier for someone with dementia to call for help by displaying large, clear photos of important people rather than requiring them to navigate complex phone directories.

Cost considerations and funding options

Assistive technology for dementia care can be expensive, but there are often funding options available that many families aren't aware of.

NHS and social services funding

In some areas, GPS tracking devices and other safety technology may be available through NHS continuing healthcare funding or social services equipment loans. Contact your local social services department to ask about assistive technology assessments.

Charitable funding

Organisations like the Alzheimer's Society sometimes offer grants for assistive technology, particularly for families experiencing financial hardship.

Insurance coverage

Some home insurance policies may cover assistive technology if it's recommended by healthcare professionals as necessary for safety. Check with your insurance provider about what might be covered.

Budget-friendly alternatives

Remember that expensive isn't always better. Simple solutions like basic door alarms or medication reminder systems can be just as effective as sophisticated smart home systems and may be more reliable in the long run.

Getting your loved one comfortable with new technology

The best assistive technology in the world won't help if your loved one won't use it or finds it distressing. Successful technology adoption requires patience, gradual introduction and lots of positive reinforcement.

Start small and build gradually

Introduce one new device at a time rather than overwhelming someone with multiple new technologies. Allow plenty of time for them to get comfortable with each addition before introducing something else.

Involve them in the decision

Where possible, explain why you're suggesting a particular device and how it might help them maintain their independence. People are much more likely to accept technology they understand and have helped choose.

Practice and repetition

Plan to spend time helping your loved one learn to use new devices. What seems simple to you might require lots of repetition for someone with dementia to feel confident using.

Make it routine

Try to integrate new technology into existing routines rather than creating entirely new habits. For example, putting on a GPS watch might become part of getting dressed each morning.

Remember, the goal of assistive technology isn't to replace human care and attention - it's to enhance safety whilst supporting independence. The most sophisticated device won't work if it doesn't fit naturally into your loved one's daily life and preferences.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the technology options available, consider speaking to an occupational therapist who specialises in dementia care. They can assess your specific situation and recommend solutions that are most likely to work for your family's circumstances.

The key is starting with simple, reliable solutions and building up gradually rather than trying to solve every potential safety concern with technology all at once.