Find out more about how digital devices can impact someone dealing with dementia — positively and negatively — below.

How Digital Devices Can Help

When implemented as part of a consistent care routine or daily habits, digital devices can help individuals with dementia live more independently and enjoy various forms of entertainment.

1. Reminders for Daily Tasks

You can use smartphones and tablets like iPads to download simple productivity and time-management apps. From scheduling apps to to-do-list apps, these resources help individuals with memory struggles keep up with important tasks throughout the day.

You can use digital devices to create reminders with visual and auditory alarms for:

• Appointments
• Medication doses
• Meal and snack times
• Bedtimes
• Other habits you want to instill in each day, such as taking a walk, reading for a while or calling someone

2. GPS Tracking to Support Safety While Allowing Independence

Caregivers or loved ones might ask their family members to add GPS tracking to a wearable device, such as a smartwatch. Loved ones can then track the location of their older relative, providing peace of mind that they're in a safe location or at home.

GPS tracking can be helpful when an older adult is diagnosed with the early stages of dementia but is still able to live safely on their own most of the time. It can also provide options for older adults who live with caregivers but want to be able to take walks or run short errands by themselves.

3. Options for Cognitive Stimulation and Brain Training

Tablets and smartphones allow access to thousands of gaming apps, including options that are designed to stimulate cognitive function and help work memory and focus skills. One of these apps is called Lumosity. It lets you play a variety of puzzle games to practice cognitive skills and encourages you to come back daily to keep your streak and improve skills.

4. Support for Social Connections

Digital devices that let you connect with others via video chats can be helpful for caregivers who want to check in on loved ones with memory care disorders. It can also help people in any stage of dementia have meaningful conversations and regular connections with loved ones, regardless of where everyone lives.

5. Help With Smart Home Automation to Enhance Security

You can use smartphones and other devices to set up home automation to control locks and HVAC systems or see real-time video from a home. This can help family caregivers support a loved one who is still able to remain at home but needs some assistance with daily functions.

This level of support can also help you understand when it might be time to consider memory care services, such as those offered at Autumn View Gardens in Creve Coeur.

How Digital Devices Can Harm

Excessive screen use can promote sedentary behavior, and lack of physical activity can increase someone's risk of developing dementia. Even when you use digital devices in moderation, they can have a negative impact on individuals with dementia.

1. Digital Overstimulation and Technology Frustrations Can Enhance Agitation

The fast-moving images online, constant notifications that cause dings and pop-ups and potential bewilderment regarding how to use devices can overstimulate someone with dementia. This can increase confusion or agitation, causing someone to act out in anger.

When incorporating digital devices, it's important to be aware of signs of frustration and stop using devices for a while to take a break from that stimulation.  

2. Social Media Can Increase Anxiety

Social media feeds can be filled with potentially triggering information. Individuals with dementia may have a hard time interpreting posts and understanding what may be true or not. Constantly taking in this level of often-questionable information can drive fear, anxiety and paranoia.

3. Caregivers Might Lean Too Heavily on Technology, Reducing Human Interaction

Automations, GPS and the ability to check in via a quick video call can help caregivers support loved ones with dementia. However, relying too heavily on such conveniences can lead to reduced human interaction, increasing isolation and loneliness. Not being aware of the limitations of technology like GPS can also lead to safety concerns.

4. Blue Light and Digital Stimulation Can Negatively Impact Sleep

Studies have shown that when individuals in their 50s and 60s get less than 7 hours of sleep each night, their risk of dementia can increase by 30%. For people who already have a dementia diagnosis, quality sleep is still important, and it can sometimes be difficult to get. Using technology too late in the evening can reduce the chances of restful sleep.