CTV National News: Avis Favaro reports on the technology being tested to help people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Can GPS technology help dementia sufferers stay independent longer? From the article:
Of the 40 families in the study so far, three-quarters say the technology works
Each year, dozens of patients across Canada suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia go missing. For some, it can lead to death if they’re not located soon enough.
In an effort to prevent such tragedies, some dementia sufferers are institutionalized.
Trial researchers are hoping the GPS technology will help keep the growing number of dementia patients safe in their own homes, and thus prolong independent living.
Some of the devices being tested include a watch with two-way communication and a shoe insole with GPS that will give a patient’s exact location.
Researcher Lili Liu says three out of five dementia sufferers will experience some form of wandering.
“We need to allow them the freedom to walk … but to do it with as little risk as possible,” Liu told CTV News.
Of the 40 families in the study so far, three-quarters say the technology works.
Tim said it’s been beneficial to both him and Allison.