Dementia Australia Tech Stories

Jump on the Dementia Australia website and tap on Stories. From there you will see a heap of great stories shared by people living with, in and around dementia. 

Search for technology and explore the paths already explored and what works to actually help.

​There are currently 130 articles that cover a lot of ground.

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1. Reminders and Prompts:

• Medication reminders: Apps and devices can provide reminders for medication, appointments, and other daily tasks. This can be especially helpful for people with memory loss.
• Prompting devices: These devices can display messages or images to prompt individuals to perform certain actions, such as eating meals or getting dressed.

2. Navigation and Safety:

• GPS tracking devices: These devices can help people with dementia who may wander to be located quickly and safely.
• Smart home technology: Features like automatic lighting, door sensors, and stove shut-off systems can enhance safety and independence at home.

3. Communication and Connection:

• Video calling: Video calls can help people with dementia stay connected with family and friends, even if they live far away.
• Social media and online communities: Online platforms can provide opportunities for social interaction and support for both people with dementia and their carers.

4. Cognitive Stimulation and Engagement:

• Cognitive training apps: These apps offer games and activities designed to stimulate cognitive function and memory.
• Music and reminiscence therapy apps: These apps can use music and familiar images to trigger memories and promote emotional well-being.

​Examples of Technology in Action (from Dementia Australia and elsewhere):

• Dementia-Friendly Home app: This app uses interactive 3D technology to provide ideas for making homes safer and more accessible for people living with dementia.
• A Better Visit app: This free app helps people visiting a family member in residential care, offering tips and suggestions for making visits more meaningful.
• BrainTrack app: This app provides games and challenges to help people track their brain health and share data with their GP if they have concerns.
• Assistive technology devices: This can include everything from simple memory aids like calendars and pill organizers to more advanced devices like personal emergency response systems (PERS).

Where to find stories:

• Dementia Australia Website: Their website often features stories of people using technology to live well with dementia. Look for articles, blog posts, and videos on their site.
• Dementia Australia Helpline: The helpline (1800 100 500) can provide information and resources, including examples of how technology is being used to support people with dementia.
• Online forums and support groups: Online communities for people with dementia and their carers often feature discussions and stories about using technology.

These stories often highlight how technology can:

• Promote independence: By providing tools and support, technology can help people with dementia maintain their independence for longer.
• Reduce caregiver stress: Technology can assist with tasks like medication reminders and safety monitoring, which can ease the burden on caregivers.
• Improve quality of life: By facilitating communication, social connection, and cognitive stimulation, technology can enhance the overall quality of life for people living with dementia.

By sharing these stories, Dementia Australia and others are helping to demonstrate the positive impact of technology in supporting people affected by dementia.

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