Aiding Patients with Alzheimer’s
Over 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s Disease, a progressive disease that impairs memory and cognitive functions. By 2050, the number of people aged 65 and older with Alzheimer’s is projected to double to 12.7 million.
Caregivers and patients continue to undergo trials and tribulations when it comes to the disease’s progression. Though there is no cure, there are growing technologies that are seeking to help treat the resulting memory problems and aid with daily activities, safety, and socializing.
- Assistive technology
Assistive technologies are devices or systems that balance a person’s ability to do things in everyday life. For patients with Alzheimer’s, they can assist with a range of difficulties, including problems with memory and mobility. These tools include automatic and talking clocks, clothing with Velcro, automatic pill dispensers, locator devices, and virtual assistants; evidently, they can be high-tech or low-tech. Many smartphone applications have also transitioned into this space by replacing other forms of assistive devices (i.e., calendar apps for automatic calendars), working to supplement memory and motor issues.
2. Remote patient monitoring technology
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a form of telemedicine technology that can be used to improve at-home care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as elderly adults. Companies like Somatix are promoting solutions that help improve the quality of life and manage the symptoms of people living with dementia. Its Safebeing™ device uses unique artificial intelligence-enabled technology that can generate powerful clinical insights sent directly and passively to clinicians, alerting them to any risk of dehydration, wandering, falls, and medication compliance.
3. Behavioral Management
There are burgeoning innovations involving multisensory technology for people with Alzheimer’s to create a more therapeutic environment. These environments employ various lights, fragrances, objects, and music delivered from visually, auditory, tactile, and olfactory stimulating devices. Among people with dementia, this technology has been shown to have positive outcomes in reducing psychotic behaviors, improving motor performance, increasing interpersonal communication, and decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Seeing a loved one struggle with Alzheimer’s is no easy feat, but modern advancements are ameliorating these obstacles.
