1. You take the high-tech and I’ll take the low tech…
Edward McLaughlin
Scottish Dementia Working Group
ADI March 2012
Introduction: Hello good morning, I’m Edward McLuaghlin, SDWG member, for 10 years, thanks for invitation
The way I cope is (philisophical): Life isn’t fair but its still good! When in doubt take small steps. You don’t have to win every argument.
Its ok to let your kids see you cry, never too late to have a happy childhood just remember the 2nd one’s up to you
When it comes to ignoring love in your life don’t take no for an answer,
You might lose but it’ll be hell of a fight
Don’t save anything for a special occasion, todays special
Don’t wait til old age to be eccentric
Most important sex organ is your brain
No one’s in charge of your own happiness but you
What other people think of you is none of your business
Don’t take yourself so seriously, nobody else does
Growing old beats the alternative, dying young
Can look after self, no caregiver needed, can’t complain! Awareness and reality, what’s happening in your day people would be jealous because you’re actually very lucky.

2. HOW A DIAGNOSIS OF DEMENTIA MAY CHANGE DAY TO DAY NEEDS
Memory problems
Problems with depth of vision and peripheral vision
Mobility
Fatigue
AM/PM people
Many daily tasks can become difficult
What are the solutions?

3. SIMPLE TECHNOLOGY THAT CAN HELP AROUND THE HOUSE - Kitchen and Bathroom
Large handled cutlery, 2-handled mugs
Non-slip mats/ One-touch automatic can/
jar opener
Smoke alarms fitted with flashing lights
Bath temperature and water level indicator
Talking tins
Images taken from essentialaids.com and rnib.org.uk

4. ASSISTED TECHNOLOGY Hob Angel
Promotes independent living through safe cooking

5. SIMPLE TECHNOLOGY THAT CAN HELP AROUND THE HOUSE - Electronic devices
Startaboard high contrast keyboard
Big button talking telephone
TV based video magnifiers
Recordable greeting cards
Talking calculator
Universal remote control
Images taken from essentialaids.com and rnib.org.uk

6. SIMPLE TECHNOLOGY THAT CAN HELP AROUND THE HOUSE - General
Game sets
Signature/envelope guide
Large faced clock/talking clocks
Book stand with light
Glowmat
Images taken from essentialaids.com and rnib.org.uk

7. SIMPLE TECHNOLOGY FOR LEAVING THE HOUSE
Key turner and Key locators
Recording devices (e.g. for shopping lists)
Medi alert and Help card
Note detector and coin holders
Big button mobile phones
Images taken from essentialaids.com and rnib.org.uk

8. ULTIMATE GOAL SHOULD BE THE FACILITATION OF A GOOD QUALITY OF LIFE
Use of practical, simple devices
Promotion of dignity
Does not need to be high tech
Low tech vs. high tech

9. ULTIMATE GOAL SHOULD BE THE FACILITATION OF A GOOD QUALITY OF LIFE (2)
Importance of sharing ideas to enhance freedom and confidence to be independent
Alzheimer’s and related dementia research discussion group
Allows those diagnosed and their carer’s to share and discuss problems and successes with others, and professionals
Reduces isolation
Excellent for countries with poor facilities

10. COMMON SENSE VS. PROMOTION OF ELABORATE TECHNOLOGY???
Many things are appropriate for everyone not just those with dementia!