The Alzheimer’s Society predicts a steady increase in the numbers of people suffering from some form of dementia in the coming years. Today, dementia affects one person in 20 aged over 65 years and one person in five over 80 years of age. They also point out that most people are happier living in their own homes for as long as possible, and the challenges of balancing independence and safety. Research work in the US shows the onset of dementia can be slowed down by regular activity.

In most cases, once dementia has been diagnosed, a person’s dementia will worsen faster than their physical deterioration and therefore institutionalised care is almost inevitable. People with dementia don’t like changes in their circumstances, which can be very upsetting and threatening.
Delaying residential care as long as possible is one of the key objectives of maximising quality of life and to minimising costs. It is not practical for families and carers to keep a watchful eye on people with dementia 24 hours a day, so environmental risks such as leaving the gas cooker turned on and the dangers of wandering are significant.

WristCare’s smart wandering protection can alert carers immediately a specific person leaves home, or if they fail to return within a specified time. The range of environmental sensors can minimise the environmental risk brought about by a person’s forgetfulness.