Real stories

People affected by dementia try out products that help with snacks and mealtimes

Dementia Voice local groups meet regularly to influence what the Society and other organisations do. Through them, people share valuable feedback and guidance based on their lived experiences.

Norwich’s group is no exception, and we got their opinions on products designed to help with eating and drinking, all available from our online shop.

Droplet Reminder hydration set

The Droplet Reminder hydration set includes a mug and tumbler that fit onto an electronic base. Voice messages and lights prompt you to drink if you haven’t lifted the cup for a set time.

You can use pre-set messages or record your own. You can also choose for reminders to come on after 20, 40 or 60 minutes – whatever would best help you to stay hydrated.

‘That would have been helpful for my mum,’ said Jan.

Carol agreed, ‘Fred makes a coffee and forgets to drink it.’

Some people would need the settings done for them the first time it’s used. The base takes three AAA batteries, which you need to buy separately.

Michelle thought an option to charge the base would be helpful, though it has an alert for when batteries need to be replaced.

The set includes a lid with a discreet spout and a hole for a straw.

Tina liked that the mug and tumbler didn’t feel heavy – something her dad struggles with. The group suggested a two-handled mug as an idea for future models.

Not everyone heard the reminders going off in the hubbub of the session, though their volume can be adjusted.

Roger noted, ‘You would hear it if it’s right by your chair.’

Rosa trays and mugs

Lightweight and easy to handle, Rosa mugs and trays fit together to hold a snack and drink in one.

The mugs are two handled and their cheerful cat, dog and lilac designs match the trays. You can buy them separately or as a set.

‘I’m very impressed with that,’ said Carol. She also thought the price for the mug and tray set was good value.

Jan liked the mugs, but thought the tray could work better on a side table than on your lap. ‘My mum would try to cross her legs!’

Asked if he’d consider using the set, Fred said, ‘Oh yes, I think so.’

There are also two clear lids for the mug – one with a hole and another with a spout – that you can get in single or double packs.

Tina was pleased that the discreet ‘dignity’ mug lid, which has a hole and no spout, can be used either for sipping or with a straw.

Jan thought options with plainer designs would be good. The group was enthusiastic about a possible new forget- me-not pattern for Rosa mugs and trays.

Clothes protectors

We showed the group two styles of clothes protector that are designed to be unobtrusive while keeping clothes clean. Both are made of soft fabric with absorbent layers, waterproof linings and velcro fastenings.

Carol modelled the Pashmina Style Clothes Protector, an elegant scarf that fastens behind the neck.

She described it as ‘ladylike’, and Tina liked that there was a choice of colours for the dotted design – burgundy, navy or grey.

Danny was first to try on the Cross Scarf Clothes Protector, which fastens at the front in a simple, smart style.

He was followed by Ian, Graham and Fred, all of whom found it comfortable. Fred thought it ‘looks a bit like a waistcoat’.

The group was impressed with the appearance of both protectors, especially when compared to more usual napkin and tabard styles.

‘You could take one to use at a restaurant,’ said Jan.

‘… and not feel embarrassed,’ added Carol, who was also pleased to confirm that they’re machine washable.

Jan liked their prices, though Tina suggested providing them in packs of two.

‘You’d want a couple,’ she noted. ‘One to use and one in the wash.’

Product prices (all include VAT)

• Droplet Reminder hydration set – £29.95.
• Rosa two handled mug (dog, cat or lilac) – £11.99.
• Rosa tray (dog, cat or lilac) – £13.99.
• Rosa mug and tray set (dog, cat or lilac) – £22.99.
• Rosa dignity mug lid – £3.99 for one or £8.99 for a pack of two.
• Rosa spouted mug lid – £3.99 for one or £8.99 for a pack of two.
• Pashmina Style Clothes Protector (dotted burgundy, navy or grey) – £16.99.
• Cross Scarf Clothes Protector (navy blue) – £15.99.

You can buy Pashmina Style and Cross Scarf Clothes Protectors VAT free if for use by a person with dementia or other conditions. To save 20% on these and many other specially designed products, tick the box stating you’re eligible for VAT relief at checkout.