Harnessing Technology to Bridge the Gap in Early Dementia: Overcoming Challenges and Strengthening Connections

Dementia changes everything. It reshapes relationships, alters communication, and often leaves families feeling distant from the loved ones they once knew so well. For adult children caring for elderly parents, watching this transformation unfold can be heartbreaking and confusing. Yet, technology offers tools that can help ease some of these challenges, especially in the early stages of dementia. It can support home care and improve communication, helping families stay connected on their unique journeys.

Tablet showing memory aid app on kitchen table

How Dementia Creates Distance Between Families

When a parent begins to show signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s, their family will start to notice changes, subtle ones at first. Simple conversations become difficult. Familiar faces and places may no longer be recognized. The parent will also have noticed this and will probably be doing their best to find coping mechanisms. An early diagnosis can allow interventions to be put into place, delaying the inevitable for as long as possible.

Adult children often find themselves juggling multiple roles: advocate, caregiver, and emotional support. They may struggle with feelings of frustration when their parent forgets details or becomes confused. If the parent lives far away, the constant journeys (often at the most inconvenient times) can lead to exhaustion and resentment.

Understanding that every person’s experience with dementia is different helps families approach this challenge with patience. Some days will be better than others. Technology can provide some support during these challenging times.

Using Technology to Support Early Dementia Care

Technology designed for dementia care focuses on safety, memory support, and communication. Here are some practical ways it can help:

• Memory aids and reminders: Apps and devices can prompt medication schedules, appointments, and daily tasks. For example, a digital calendar with alarms can remind a parent to take their medicine or attend a doctor’s visit.

• GPS tracking and emergency alerts: Wearable devices can track location and send alerts if a person wanders or needs help. This gives family members peace of mind without constant supervision.

• Simplified communication tools: Video calling platforms with easy interfaces help maintain face-to-face contact. Some apps allow sharing photos and messages that can trigger memories and conversations.

• Cognitive games and activities: Interactive games designed for people with dementia can stimulate the brain and provide enjoyable ways to engage.

  
  

These tools do not replace human connection but support it by reducing stress and improving safety. It may be too obvious to say, but remembering to use the tool can be an obstacle in itself. This is why it's better to start using them as early as possible, so that they become part of the daily routine. Failing that, a routine visit from a friend, family member or care professional should incorporate the use of these devices where possible.

Personal Story: Finding Connection Through Technology

Sadly, if you are in your 50s or older, you will almost certainly will have had at least one elderly relative who has suffered from dementia of some form. One of my earliest memories is of my Great Grandmother who could never remembered who I was. I didn't understand why. Years later it was my beloved Grandmother who was cursed with dementia. In both cases they were cared for within the family, there wasn't really any other option back then, but it places a huge burden onto whoever delivers the bulk of the care. Fast forward to more recent times and we have had another two cases within my extended family. Both times we have supported them to live at home for as long as possible. But home wasn't nearby so we used technology wherever possible to simplify life. An Alexa smart speaker allowed for music to be ever present. A Fire TV Cube enabled the TV to be switched on and off via voice command once the remote control had become too difficult to use. A Doro phone had just enough functionality to be useful without being too confusing.

There were a few things that we couldn't get on with. We tried a gadget that allowed us to change the TV channels remotely, but it never really worked. We invested in Facebook Portal, a device that sat on the top of the TV and allowed for video calls to appear on the screen. I loved it, but I was the only one. Even Facebook have ditched it now. As technology changes and evolves, solutions and strategies come and go. What was right for us may not be right for you. But for all of us, there's a time window. Having strategies in place as early as possible allows time for them to be embedded before they are essential, if you wait too long the window will close and the opportunity will be lost.

Smartwatch with GPS tracking on elderly person's wrist

Steps to Introduce Technology in Home Care

Introducing new technology to a parent with dementia requires sensitivity and patience. Here are some steps to consider:

• Start simple: Choose devices or apps with clear, easy-to-use interfaces. Avoid overwhelming your parent with too many new tools at once.

• Involve your parent: Explain how the technology can help and let them try it at their own pace. Their comfort and willingness matter most.

• Customize settings: Adjust reminders, alerts, and notifications to fit your parent’s routine and preferences.

• Provide ongoing support: Be available to troubleshoot and encourage use. Celebrate small successes to build confidence.

• Coordinate with home care providers: If your parent receives professional home care, ensure caregivers are familiar with the technology and can assist.

  
  

By taking these steps, technology becomes a helpful companion rather than a source of frustration.

Limitations of Utility

As with all dementia interventions, the appropriateness of technological solutions will change in line with the progression of the disease. What was once a simple step can become an impossible leap. Technology is only useful if it alleviates a problem, reduces stress or enriches an experience. As time goes by, a device's utility will wane and become an onerous source of frustration.

Accepting that things have changed and adjusting your expectations accordingly can be difficult, but it has to be done. Letting go of something that you have come to value and moving onto the next phase is something you will be reluctant to do, but do it you must. Reassess your parent's needs, take a deep breath and start again from where you are.

Recognizing the Unique Journey of Each Family

No two dementia journeys are the same. Some families may find technology a natural fit, while others prefer more traditional methods of care. The key is to remain flexible and open to trying different approaches.

Technology can help maintain dignity and independence for your parent, while also reducing the emotional and physical burden on family caregivers. It can create moments of joy, connection, and reassurance in a time that often feels uncertain.

For adult children navigating this path, remember that your efforts matter. Using technology thoughtfully can make a meaningful difference in how you and your parent cope with dementia together.