Notes

How a Dementia Tracker Can Help
GPS (global positioning system) devices are increasingly being used to track the whereabouts of people with dementia. This is because they can help carers locate their loved ones should they wander away.

This technology could also help people with dementia stay in their own homes longer, while avoiding the risk of getting lost or disorientated in unfamiliar surroundings. However, it comes with its own problems and concerns.
1. Accuracy

GPS tracking systems can be used to monitor a person with dementia’s movement in real time, record their location history, and send notifications when they go out of defined ‘safe zones’. This can be useful for researchers, caregivers, and people with dementia themselves.

However, a GPS tracker can be difficult to use and it may not integrate into the daily life of persons with dementia or their caregivers. This can exacerbate the psychological and emotional stress of both parties, resulting in them missing the full benefits of the technology or abandoning it altogether.

We identified company websites with electronic tracking devices for use in dementia care using a Google search, 2 device recommendation lists (Alzheimer’s Los Angeles and the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health), and recent reviews of wander management technology by Neubauer et al [14] and Ray et al [42]. Website content was evaluated and included those that were official representations of companies developing and selling electronic tracking devices for use in dementia care.
2. Unobtrusive

For dementia sufferers and their caregivers, 'wandering about' is not necessarily a bad thing as it enables them to alleviate stress and partake in exercise. However, this activity can be somewhat frightening for concerned family members and carers alike, with dangers like busy roads or getting lost a real threat.

Thankfully, there are several trackers on the market that are designed specifically to help improve safety for those suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia. wandering alarms for dementia These unobtrusive devices can be used to track a loved one's movements around the home and notify their family of any strange behavior.

For example, the Smartsole combines GPS tracking with a smartphone app and a clever little device that fits into a pair of shoes. The product has a battery life of over 6 months and is very discreet.
3. Convenience

A person with dementia is prone to wandering, which can be very dangerous for both them and their caregivers. In these situations, a tracker can be a valuable tool to help keep a loved one safe and sound.

Many tracking devices have additional features like a panic button, geo-fencing, and SOS buttons that allow family members to alert their caregivers in case of an emergency.

These devices come in various form factors including watches, shoe soles, keychains and more. They are easy to carry around and provide convenience for both seniors and their caregivers.
4. Battery life

GPS tracking devices are available in many shapes and sizes to keep track of virtually anything. They’re ideal for elderly people and can be a lifesaver when they wander off or get lost.

Depending on the tracker, battery life can range from days to weeks. This makes it important to choose a device with a long battery life and the ability to quickly charge it in case of an emergency.

Having a dementia tracker is a great way to help a loved one maintain their independence. Using a tracking device can also relieve the stress on caregivers and give them a little bit of peace of mind. When deciding on the best dementia tracker, consider the above factors to find the right fit for your loved one and your family.
5. Apps

A dementia tracker is a great way to keep your loved one safe. They can help you track their whereabouts if they wander.

Many of these products have an emergency call button, which means you can send a signal to your loved one’s contact list if they get lost or in trouble. These devices are also lightweight and easy to carry around.

There are also apps that you can use with your dementia tracker to help with other aspects of caring for a loved one with dementia. These include reminders and schedules.
Website: https://dementiadevices.com/wandering/