What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology is a broad term used to describe any item or object which enables a person with a disability to perform a task that they would otherwise be unable to do.
The types of assistive technology available and how they can be used to support someone living with dementia vary greatly. There are “low tech” and simple stand alone items such as a calendar clock which can help with orienting someone to the time of the day, the day of the week, the month and year. There is also more advanced technology, such as automated home systems, that manages lighting, temperature and safety features in the home.
While assistive technology will never be the sole answer to maximizing quality of life for people with dementia, it can play an important support role and may delay or prevent a person from moving from home if they so choose.
Telecare is a type of assistive technology that is used to provide support from a distance. This support is usually from a call centre and can be used to monitor the person’s health status for falls, existing conditions, or check whether household appliances have been left on. If difficulty is detected, a call is automatically placed to the call centre who will then notify the nominated carer.