(Photo : Philippe Leone via Unsplash)

The constant upgrades in technology and innovations have a profound impact on healthcare. Technology plays a significant role in improving the healthcare industry, starting from research to medication trials and top-notch equipment.

Technology allows caregivers and doctors to help seniors who live with dementia. Embracing technology to treat dementia can benefit people living with dementia and their caregivers at dementia care facilities. Here are some ways technology is changing dementia treatment.

AI Can Predict Who Will Develop Dementia

According to research submitted to Science Daily, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can predict which people who attend memory clinics will develop dementia within two years. The study led by the University of Exeter used data from more than 15 300 patients in the U.S. and concluded with 92 percent accuracy. The participants analyzed data from people who did not have dementia at the start of the study, but some were facing memory problems.

The form of AI that accurately indicates who will develop dementia is called machine learning. The technique identifies common or hidden patterns to determine who is most at risk. Another benefit of this technology is that the algorithm could reduce the number of people falsely diagnosed with dementia.

(Credit: Freepik)

Assistive Technology Can Increase Independence

Many assistive technology devices can improve the independence and safety of people with dementia. It can include a range of technology, such as a standalone piece of equipment that automates prompts, provides medical reminders, or locator devices. A locator device with a tracking system allows caregivers to know where the senior with dementia is in case they start to wander.

Other forms of assistive technology include safety systems, such as fall detectors, automated lights, and shut-off devices. Allowing seniors to maintain their independence while ensuring their safety will help them feel secure and lead a better quality of life.

Video Monitoring for Medication Compliance

It can be challenging for a senior living with dementia to remember to take all their medication. Missing timely doses can impact their health and lead to more significant problems in the long term. Installing video cameras in the homes of people living with dementia can allow caregivers to assess their needs when they are physically away.

According to a study, the devices lead to a positive quality of life-related outcomes. The study also revealed how video monitoring could increase medication compliance in people with dementia. Combing the technology with bed sensors allows caregivers to reduce intrusive checkups and avoid unnecessary awakenings.

Credit: (rawpixel.com via Freepik)

Scope for Further Research

Research in dementia studies can help caregivers find ways to manage the disease or help find medications that may have a more significant impact. Technological advancements allow researchers to continue their studies at a broader capacity. Any new developments provide more extensive scope for researchers and help them access better resources to conduct research.  

Research allows doctors and caregivers to become more familiar with the scope of treatment, improving the care level for people with dementia.

Technology helps dementia treatment in many ways. The ability to predict who may develop dementia, support people currently living with dementia, and provide scope for research are all methods that contribute to better treatment.