Thoughtful technology which helps carers of people living with dementia will roll out in full force this year.
A Better Visit is a free app for iPads designed to help visitors better connect with their friends and family members living with dementia.
The app features a variety of different games and activities that are simple, memory provoking and fun, the app makers say.
The games are flexible and explorative, meaning there is no wrong way to play.
Online support for carers
Central Queensland University has also developed a free online program to support carers of people with dementia.
The new program is aimed at supporting isolated carers through online support sessions which connect them with others in the same situation.
Under the umbrella of The Caring for Carers of People with Dementia Project, the chat-based group program allows carers to join a weekly group videoconference meeting in the comfort of their own home.
Carers have the opportunity to share information, experience and skills relating to dementia.
The information and chat meetings are led by facilitator Dr Annie Banbury, and run for six weeks.
Group programs have now started and will be offered through to May 2019.
Carers are encouraged to use their own desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone, however the project organisers can loan them a tablet for the sessions if needed.
Carers will be offered a $50 voucher to cover internet charges when the project finishes.
The university’s Caring for Carers of People with Dementia Project has received Australian Government Dementia and Aged Care Services funding and will gather information which will be available for participants when the project is finished.
To register or find out more, email carers@cqu.edu.au or phone Karen Nixon on 0427 812 156 or Kristen Forster on 0437 579 695.
You can also register your interest here.