Memory aids and mobile phones
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There are many simple technological aids available to help make your relative’s life that little bit easier and safer, and giving you more peace of mind.
Memory aids
Some memory aids are fairly technical, others less so – but all are designed to help with remembering important and safety-critical everyday tasks.
It's important to note, though, that although these products can help your relative manage their memory problems, they can't cure any underlying issues and nor should they be seen as a replacement for the appropriate medical care or attention.
See Memory aids for dementia in the Which? product reviews for staying independent at home for further information on items such as:
memory aids for bathing and other daily living activities
key locators and other locator devices
automatic calendar clocks and electronic voice memos.
Accessible mobile phones
It seems as if nearly everyone has a mobile phone these days, used for an increasing variety of purposes. This presents a real opportunity for designers of both hardware (the phone itself) and software (the applications) to reach out to older users, offering solutions to daily problems and opening doors to new possibilities.
For further information on the different products that are available, see Accessible mobile phones and digital apps in Which? product reviews for staying independent at home.
More information
Cognitive exercise and mental health: learn about the value of cognitive exercise and the different types, from card games to scrapbooking.
Medication management systems: read about storing and dispensing pills and timers and apps to act as memory joggers.
Which? also has information about buying the best simple mobile phone and easy-to-use cordless phones.
Page last reviewed: November 2016
Next review due: April 2019