How GPS Trackers Are Helping Families Monitor Loved Ones With Dementia Safely
Dementia is not a normal part of the natural ageing process, and this is why a GPS tracking bracelet for a dementia patient can be a good idea.
Many individuals will live into their 90’s and even older without showing any signs of mental decline, but as the body and brain age it is common for people to develop mild difficulty with concentrating or multi-tasking.
It may take a little longer to learn new things or solve problems, and forgetfulness – like not remember appointments, details of conversations or where you left something is very common. Usually some or most of the details can be recalled at a later date. Even muddling words is considered part of normal age-related cognitive change.
With age, once-healthy neurons, or nerve cells in the brain stop working, lose connection with other brain cells and die. Some neuron loss is naturally expected with age, but with dementia there is a far greater loss of cells, causing symptoms ranging from mild to very severe.
The idea of an elderly GPS tracker may not sit well with some people. However, where dementia patients are concerned it is vital for them if they want to continue to live safely and independently, giving the wearer a sense of freedom and security, and their loved ones or carers peace of mind that they can be located if they wander or become disorientated.
What is the Best GPS Tracker for Dementia Patients?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the best GPS tracker because the success of the device will depend on various factors, including the severity of the symptoms the patient is suffering from, and their willingness to wear the device.
Some people with dementia may remove an object like a bracelet or pendant that is unfamiliar to them or forget to charge the device, so it is important to assess the stage of cognitive decline and bear it in mind when choosing a suitable tracker.
Choosing a Wearable Tracking Devices for a Dementia Patient
It is not known exactly what causes dementia but there are various neurodegenerative disorders and factors that contribute to its development. Different types of dementia exist, of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common. There is currently no known cure for any type of dementia, so treatment consists of managing the symptoms and keeping the patient safe and independent for as long as possible.
There are many different tracking devices available today and the most effective monitoring systems are those that provide safety and peace of mind, whilst remembering a patient’s dignity and privacy are still important.
Common dementia symptoms include disorientation associated with memory loss, and often lead to the patient wandering, causing them to become lost or walk into dangerous situations. GPS trackers for dementia patients in shoes allows you to be able to track your loved one from any smartphone, tablet or web browser, and can be fitted into most shoes.
They are discreet and often look like regular insoles, and some systems allow for setting up ‘geo-fences’, or virtual boundaries, so carers are alerted when the wearer enters or leaves a designated area.
Wearable tracking devices include a GPS tracker bracelet for dementia patients, which can resemble regular watches but include features like heart-rate monitoring, fall detection and two-way calling.
Tracking pendants can be worn as necklaces, which are a little more discreet and an ideal option for those who are not comfortable wearing something on their wrist, and mini-GPS trackers are small and compact devices that can be attached to clothing, a keychain or other personal items.
Gain Peace of Mind With GPS Trackers
If the cognitive decline of your loved one means they forget to put on shoes or wear their GPS bracelet or pendant, you could choose a non-removable tracking bracelet for dementia patients. These can be a valuable tool for ensuring safety and providing peace of mind as they are designed to be difficult to remove by the wearer.
They offer real-time location tracking and have tamper-proof straps or locking devices that require a special tool or a carer’s intervention to remove.
GPS trackers can be expensive to buy and have costly on-going monthly fees, so help with NHS dementia tracker equivalents can be found through organisations like Dementia Australia or Medicare, who may be able to assist with funding. Whilst truly free GPS trackers for dementia patients are rare, there are options with low, or no monthly fees that may be more suitable.
Always research the options carefully and understand the ongoing costs involved, so you don’t choose a tracking system that breaks the bank. Our SureSafe dementia tracker is a great option suitable for dementia patients, that will provide peace of mind for all those involved.
