Device to improve life for dementia sufferers

Mar 20 2008 by Chris Robinson, The Journal

A TRACKING device aimed at helping people with dementia lead independent lives has been developed by a North research team.

Newcastle University developed the state-of-the art Keeping In Touch Everyday (KITE) project, working with those suffering from the memory-loss condition, their carers and experts.

The device, which can either be attached to a person or to something they use during their daily routine, sends a signal to a receiver which can then be monitored by their family in case of an emergency.

It was developed with the aim of looking at ways of countering the social and practical problems which the condition causes and to have a secondary emphasis on safety.

Dr Patrick Olivier, senior lecturer in computing science at Newcastle University and member of the Institute of Ageing and Health, said: “It was about making something very personal for people that fits in with their lives and doesn’t require them to change their lives altogether.

“We have really involved people with dementia and their carers in the process and looking at generic problems with technology such as mobile phones which often older people aren’t happy or comfortable using.

“Here we have provided the technology. The general idea is to be able to have a model that you can attach to anything which can fit into any part of your life.

“It’s all about improving how people can lead their day-to-day life and we want them to try and lead normal lives and have the confidence to go out.

“This is not about tracking people, it’s about giving people the freedom to lead independent lives.”

The technology is based around a GPS panic button.

Tracy Douglass, from the South Tyneside Alzheimer’s Society, said: “I feel that the research process used by the team was very inclusive and person-centred, as the focus was on the person with dementia and their individual needs.”