Digital Inclusion and Dementia: Engaging the digitally excluded in touchscreen activities
Dementia is a challenging and devastating condition for the elderly population. It affects not only the person diagnosed with the condition but also their families, friends, and carers. With an ageing population and an increasing number of people living with dementia, there is a growing need for innovative and effective ways to manage the condition. One solution is the use of touch screen activity tables in care homes for the elderly, particularly those with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
A touchscreen activity table is a device that is specifically designed for elderly people with dementia. It has large, responsive touch screens, simple and intuitive interfaces, and games and activities that are specifically tailored for those with dementia. The goal of using this technology is to help keep residents with dementia engaged and active, which in turn can help to improve their quality of life.
One of the key benefits of touchscreen activity tables is the reduction in falls.
One of the key benefits of touchscreen activity tables is the reduction in falls. Many elderly residents in care homes are at risk of falling due to physical or cognitive issues. However, the use of touch screen activity tables can help to reduce this risk as the games and activities are designed to encourage movement and physical activity, which can help to improve balance and coordination.
Another important benefit of touch screen activity tables is the reduction in cognitive degeneration. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease cause the brain to shrink, which can result in a decline in cognitive function. However, by using touch screen activity tables, residents can engage in mental stimulation and mental activity, which can help to slow down the progression of cognitive decline.
In addition, the use of touch screen activity tables can help to reduce the reliance on anti-psychotic drugs. Many elderly residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are prescribed anti-psychotic drugs to manage the symptoms of their condition. However, these drugs can have serious side effects and are not always the best solution. By using touch screen activity tables, residents can be entertained and engaged in activities that can help to manage their symptoms without the need for drugs.
Another important benefit of touch screen activity tables is the reduction in cases of dehydration. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can make it difficult for residents to remember to drink enough water, which can lead to dehydration. By using touch screen activity tables, residents can be distracted from their thirst and can engage in activities that encourage them to drink more water.
The use of touch screen activity tables can also help to lower heart rate before injections. Injections can be a stressful experience for elderly residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By using touch screen activity tables, residents can be distracted from the stress of the injection and their heart rate can be lowered, which can make the experience less traumatic.
Touch screen activity tables can also help to increase the natural generation of happy hormones. Engaging in activities and games can help to trigger the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural feel-good hormones. This can help to improve the mood and well-being of residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Another benefit of touchscreen activity tables is the management of instances of sundowning. Sundowning is a phenomenon where elderly residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease become more confused, agitated, and restless as the day progresses. By using touch screen activity tables, residents can be distracted from their confusion and can engage in activities that can help to manage their symptoms.
Finally, touchscreen activity tables can help to rebuild confidence through social interaction and games. Many residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can feel isolated and alone, which can impact their confidence. By using touch screen activity tables, residents can engage in social activities and games with other residents, which can help to rebuild their confidence and increase their social experiences. This can also help to reduce feelings of loneliness and improve the overall quality of life.
Furthermore, touchscreen activity tables can also offer the opportunity for video calling and reminiscence sessions. This allows residents to connect with their families and friends, and to engage in activities that can trigger memories and emotions. This can be particularly beneficial for residents with dementia as it can help to reduce confusion and provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.
In conclusion, touch screen activity tables can offer many benefits to the elderly residents of care homes, particularly those with dementia and Alzheimers. By keeping residents engaged and active, the technology can help to improve their quality of life, reduce the risk of falls and cognitive decline, and provide an enjoyable and interactive experience. It is a valuable tool for care homes and a promising solution for meeting digital inclusion standards and managing the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Click here – For more details or to book a demo of our touch screen activity tables for dementia and Alzheimers.
