Memory Aids for the Elderly
Living with memory loss can be frustrating and difficult to come to terms with. Forgetting to take medication, make appointments, or buy groceries are all signs that you could benefit from support. In some cases, memory loss can increase risk and become a danger.
Whether you are experiencing memory loss or have a loved one with a condition that causes forgetfulness, memory aids for the elderly can be an effective tool for those struggling to remember things.
The Benefits of Memory Aids
If you have an elderly loved one who lives alone, you may worry about their well-being as they don’t have anyone to remind them of important timings, such as meals and when to take their next dose of medication. Memory aids can bring peace of mind, not only to the person using the aid but also to their family.
Memory aids provide reminders of important time-specific tasks, eliminating the need for someone to prompt them. They can also be used to trigger specific actions, such as remembering to lock the door or turn the oven off after use.
For people with dementia, memory aids can help support daily routines and minimise confusion, both of which are critical for improving quality of life and boosting independence.
How to Choose and Use Memory Aids for Older Adults
When choosing a memory aid for an older adult, consider their ability to use specific tools and how it will integrate into their existing lifestyle. For example, numerous mobile phone apps are available that allow you to set reminders and write notes. However, these might not be suitable for an older adult who already struggles to use a smartphone.
Be realistic about what memory aids will fit with your loved one’s lifestyle and abilities. They need to be easy to use and not require too much technology or frequent resets to be effective. It takes time to learn how to use a new memory aid effectively. Don’t be discouraged if your loved one doesn’t see the benefits right away.
Consider the placement of the memory aid within the home. Put the information where it is needed and useful. For example, place the shopping list next to the handbag, telephone numbers next to the phone or a sticky note on the bin stating the day the bins should be put outside for collection.
Top 10 Memory Aids for Older Adults
Below are the most useful memory aids for older adults and how to use them, split into simple low-tech solutions and more technology-based solutions:
Simple, Low-Tech Memory Aids
Low-tech memory aids are generally easy to use and can be particularly helpful for adults who aren’t interested in learning how to use technology. However, they may not be as effective as technology-based memory aids.
- Whiteboards, notebooks, diaries and calendars
Whiteboards and notebooks are great for ‘to-do’ lists and shopping lists. Keep a notebook near the armchair, phone and in the kitchen, as they’re easy to refer to and make notes.
Diaries and calendars can also help with remembering appointments and birthdays, as long as the person using them knows what day it is, which can be a challenge for some older adults.
- Medication reminder box
Pill boxes can help remind people to take medication and how many tablets to take. They usually have seven small containers to store medication, one for each day of the week, which are then divided into sections for morning, afternoon and evening.
Some pill boxes have an alarm to remind an individual when it’s time to take their medication, which can be beneficial for those with advanced memory difficulties.
- Routines, daily news and reading
Daily routines can act as a powerful memory aid, especially for people with dementia. Establishing strong routines early in a person’s dementia journey can benefit them further down the line.
Following the daily news, on TV or in print, may make it easier to keep track of days and dates. Reading has been proven to boost brain power by keeping people more engaged and enabling them to process and recall information more effectively.
- Sticky notes and labels
Use sticky notes and permanent signs around the home as reminders of tasks that need to be done regularly. For example, stick a sign on the inside of the front door as a reminder to take the keys, purse or shopping list. Many people with memory loss find it helpful for the bathroom door to be labelled, along with kitchen cupboards, the pet bowl and more.
- Dementia clocks
Dementia clocks are essentially alarm clocks with a large, easy-to-read face. Some dementia clocks have other features, such as talking clocks that respond to voice commands. Digital dementia clocks can be programmed with an alarm as a reminder to perform specific tasks at designated times of the day, like meal times.
- Decluttering assistance
Keeping the home clean and organised can reduce the chances of an older adult with memory loss feeling overwhelmed. Decluttering and creating a clear and clean environment helps the brain feel calm and in control, which in turn creates a more positive environment for memory recall.
Experiment with labelled storage methods and consider getting rid of possessions that are no longer needed. If you are decluttering for a loved one, it’s essential that you ask them to help you or inform them of what you’re doing to avoid causing unnecessary confusion and distress.
Technology-Based Memory Aids
Technology-based memory aids are more tech-savvy solutions that are usually electronic. They can be very effective memory aids, but may take a little longer for an older adult to get used to. They often require an internet connection.
- Timers and reminders
Simple timers can be used to set the time when something is needed. For example, if your loved one forgets to collect the mail each morning, set an alarm with a note to check the mailbox.
More complex timers can also serve as a memory aid by keeping track of one’s calendar and its associated reminders, setting alarms and writing to-do lists.
- GPS trackers
GPS trackers and locator devices are inexpensive and can be placed on important items that are frequently misplaced, such as the television remote, front door keys or phones. These can save a person with memory issues a lot of time and stress, and reduce fall risk by preventing them from having to search high and low for things.
GPS trackers can also be added to a watch or bag, allowing a person to be found should they become confused or lost while outside. These offer peace of mind to family members and loved ones.
- Dementia-friendly phones
Dementia phones are telephones with simplified technology and easy-to-read screens. This feature enables elderly users to easily use the phone for essential tasks, such as making calls to an emergency contact.
Some dementia phones have larger or fewer buttons, or may only have buttons for pre-programmed contacts, similar to speed dial. This removes the need for a number pad and reduces confusion when making an essential call.
We have a helpful guide on the best phones for people with dementia, which may be beneficial for any older adult requiring memory assistance.
- Smart speakers
Home assistants (such as Siri, Google Home, and Apple HomePod), smart speakers use AI software and Wi-Fi to respond to spoken questions or commands. They have a wide range of uses, but for older adults with memory challenges, they’re great for:
- Setting timers and reminders
- Making shopping lists
- Getting news and weather updates
- Playing the radio
- Asking questions like “What day is it?” or “What’s the weather today?”
Talk to Our Team Today
As the UK’s longest-serving introductory live-in care agency, we have been providing compassionate live-in care to those who need it since 1959 – all from the comfort of their own homes.
Give us a call today on 01293 224 706. Our experienced team is on hand to help from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. Alternatively, contact us through our online enquiry form.
