Advice

What memory aids and tools could help a person who has dementia?

People with memory problems find different aids helpful. 

It depends on what you’re used to, and how easy you’d find using something new.

Reminders and lists

Put a calendar or diary somewhere you’ll see it often for reminders, like by the phone or on the fridge.

Perhaps you’d prefer a whiteboard, so you can wipe off tasks as they’re done? Or a notebook, so you can see what you’ve ticked off?

Keep a list of things you’re running out of, and use this to make a shopping list.

Would sticky notes or signs by the door help you check you’ve got keys and money before going out? 

Pictures can work as well as words on these.

Some people set reminders and make lists using calendar or note- taking apps. Others use a voice- activated ‘smart’ device, like Amazon Echo or Google Home.

Helpful products

Could a product that’s been specially designed be helpful?

Calendar clocks display the date and time, and you can set reminders on some.

A dosette box keeps medications for different times and days in compartments. Some have reminders or alarms too.

Attaching locator devices or tags to items can help find where you left them. You can either press a button to make them beep or flash, or find them using an app.

If a product looks complicated to set up, is there someone who could do that for you? 

Online videos and reviews of products can also help.

An occupational therapist may suggest other ideas as your dementia changes – ask your GP for a referral.

Your tips about memory aids at home

Jane Scarlett says, ‘I use calendars around house for things like appointments, friends coming over etc. I have one by the kettle in the kitchen, so I see it every day when I make tea in the morning, and one in my living room.

I hang my front door key around my neck, so I don’t forget to take it with me. 

‘I also have a key safe, which my neighbours know in case I do forget the key.

‘I have a wireless audio reminder for my front door, as I had a problem leaving my front door open when going out to walk the dog.’

Michelle Nelson-Greensmith says, ‘Things I use around the house are the calendar on my phone, a diary, and a notebook where I write everything down.

‘A whiteboard has important things that I need to remember, and also important letters.

I have blister packs for tablets, which are very helpful – I wouldn’t be able to use boxes of tablets.

‘If they weren’t as expensive as they are, I would have a digital display diary on my wall – they look absolutely fantastic.’ 

John Pops Hyde says, ‘Apart from the usual suspects like alarms on Alexa and my iPhone, I do look at the Memrabel clock screen first thing every morning. This tells me what day it is, morning or afternoon, what time it is and the date.

I made a large whiteboard daily calendar with a magnetic frame soon after my diagnosis.

‘Tech is important if treated with care and the safety it demands of “vulnerable” users.’