Rachel Haworth, a devoted full-time carer, has borne witness to the advantageous influence of technology on her mother, Brenda, who has been grappling with dementia. At the age of 53, Rachel shifted from her professional role as a carer to assume the principal responsibility of caring for her mother a decade ago, subsequent to Brenda’s diagnosis of vascular dementia following her husband’s demise.
According to Rachel, the integration of technology into their everyday routines has not only bolstered their day-to-day activities but has also led to marked improvements in her mother’s condition. She articulated, “I’ve been a carer for older people with all sorts of special requirements and cognitive disabilities for a long time, so I know just how important technology has become in the last decade or so. As a family, we’ve gone from a world where everything was pen and paper to one where tech plays a crucial role in our daily lives.”
Simple tasks such as setting medication reminders, scheduling appointments, and communicating with the support network of carers have been facilitated through the utilization of technology. Furthermore, Brenda now utilises a tablet for engaging in games and staying connected with her grandchildren through messaging apps, which has proven to be advantageous for her mental stimulation and social interaction.
This revelation comes in the wake of recent research conducted by BT Group, underlining the significant role technology can play in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia. The study disclosed that 66 per cent of dementia carers believe that technology has the potential to improve the lives of those they care for. However, it also revealed that many carers lack the requisite training to effectively employ these technological solutions, with 40 per cent expressing uncertainty and 52 per cent citing inadequate training availability.
Rachel emphasised the considerable positive change she has observed in her mother over the past year, attributing it to the embrace of technology. She stated, “Embracing technology isn’t just about convenience; it’s about preserving independence and dignity. I’ve seen how tech has given mum a sense of empowerment and connection that I would never have thought possible.”
The narrative of Rachel and Brenda serves as an inspiring exemplar of the potential advantages that technology can provide to individuals living with dementia. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of ensuring that carers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and training to effectively integrate these technological advancements into their caregiving practices.
As we persist in exploring the intersection of technology and healthcare, it is imperative that resources and support are made available to carers so that they, in turn, can offer the best possible care for their loved ones.
In conclusion, Rachel’s experience underscores the transformative power of technology in the lives of dementia patients and their caregivers. It is a testimony to the positive outcomes that can be achieved through the thoughtful integration of technology, ultimately enhancing the well-being of those living with dementia.