Imagine a resource that can suggest simple adjustments around your home that will help someone with dementia live at home longer or put an elder at ease with songs from their youth. Then imagine fitting it in your hand. Here are a few of the apps that make life easier for everyone.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Buddy (ACB)
ACB from the Alzheimer’s Association is a supportive partner for caregivers of those with this type of dementia. Tips for dealing with each stage of dementia, activity recommendations, and coping mechanisms. This app is free and available for Android and Apple devices.
CareZone
The CareZone app takes the stress out of keeping complete medical information about your loved one and organizes it all in one place, your phone. It serves as a medical chart, insurance information dispenser and interactive symptom and vitals information tracker. It organizes medication lists, essential contacts and services and to-do lists. CareZone even gives reminders to take medication and tracks compliance. This powerful app is free and available on Google Play and the Apple Store.
The Dementia-Friendly Home
Launched by the Australia Alzheimer’s Association, this app uses 3-D video game technology to help caregivers learn how simple changes to the home environment help lessen confusion and perceptual disturbances. This app is available for Android and Apple users and costs $2.99.
Memory Box!
Help your loved one remember significant places, events and music of the past with the Memory Box! app. It provides information in audio, written and visual form applicable to the entered year of birth. The musical feature of this app leverages Spotify for musical content and is a great conversation starter.
Family members that care for elderly loved ones need to address multiple issues such as guardianships and other legal planning, financial concerns and healthcare coordination. These apps are a welcome aid to hardworking caregivers.