Living Well with Dementia
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Communication

Staying connected with family and friends is so important for our social lives. However some people with dementia or visual impairments may struggle to use their phones and this can lead to reduced connectivity.

At the Memory Technology Library we demonstrate a range of simple home phones and simple mobile phones see examples below.

We work with people to understand where the issue is, such as; are you forgetting to hang up the phone? or are you unable to find or dial the number. Some simple changes and prompts might work to support the person to use their phone successfully.

For smart phone users we have developed a practical strategies sheet on ways to adapt your smart phone to support continued engagement. We also can advise on a range of useful smart phone apps that can be helpful in many ways.

The occupational therapist can demonstrate these phones and provide advice based on your needs.

You can watch a short video on communication technologies and supports from our colleague here

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Featured Resource/Products

The Doro Home Phone

The Doro Home Phone has large buttons, good colour contrast and has the capacity to store pre-programmed phone numbers with a picture or name to identify. The traditional receiver may be supportive and easier for some people to hang up the call. The phone is hearing aid compatible and lights up when the phone is ringing.

The Doro Smart Phone

This Doro mobile is one of the simplest mobile phone. It allows for only three pre-programmed numbers under the letters A, B, C. for the user to easily make a call. The colour contrast for answering and ending a call are clear to support visibility and use. With all Doro mobile phones it has GPS capacity meaning your phone location can be found by a family or carer who has the Doro Response app. In order for this feature to work it requires data and set up.

Smartphone Adaption Handout

This handout provides some tips on how to adapt your smartphone to support continued engagement. Simple changes to the size of icons and the use of widgets are explained in this information sheet. Download the smart phone adaptation handout [here](https://ucarecdn.com/a51a7e5c-600a-43dd-bfd6-c611db4c628e/)

Links to Other Assistive Technology

People living with dementia may become disorientated to the time and day which can cause anxiety.

As we age and changes occur to our physical health and brain risks may become more higher.

GPS stands for Global Positioning Satellite and allows your location to be known by nominated persons.

Telecare is a system of required assistive technologies that are connected to a 24/7 monitoring centre.