Recognising the Behaviour

If a member of the public, most likely elderly, approaches you appearing lost, distressed, or confused and in need of assistance, there is a chance that they have a form of Dementia. This can be a challenging and emotional situation, but your willingness to offer support will never be criticised. Symptoms to look out for include:

Difficulty initiating or sequencing tasks;
Difficulty with movement;
Visual difficulties;
Language problems;
Unusual behaviors.

The Lanyard Scheme

Many businesses and organisations are taking part in a sunflower lanyard scheme for non-visible disabilities.

In 2016, a UK airport first introduced green lanyards with a sunflower design. The intent was to discreetly signal to staff that the wearer (or someone with them) may need more time and support while travelling.

Now, there are supermarkets, railway stations and visitor attractions that are adopting the scheme.

If you see the Green Lanyard with the Sunflower on it, it means that there is a hidden disability.

Identifying Their Need

Types of questions to ask:

Find out if they are out with someone they know- they may have become separated from their Carer;
Ask their name and use it when speaking to them;
If they look in pain or discomfort, ask if they would like to move somewhere quieter/ more comfortable until you can locate someone to help.

And remember, don’t argue against their reality, be in their bubble!

What Next?

If the situation becomes unsafe or if you are seemingly getting nowhere, it’s a good idea to call the non-emergency number (101) or even 999 for police assistance.

If this is not the case, stay with the Person with Dementia in a public space – perhaps a café or shop - and attempt to contact a family member of theirs that may be able to provide some answers.

If the person insists that they are fine and do not need help, you can only stay vigilant and report the incident as soon as possible.

Gadgets and Aids to Support People with Dementia

*Mobility aids can help individuals who experience difficulty with balance.*

As we continue to consider how Dementia presents in public spaces, it is also essential to explore tools and gadgets that can provide support, increase safety and enhance quality of life for those living with Dementia - AND those caring for them. Tools covered include location tracking devices, mobility aids, daily living aids for use at home, safety aids, memory and communication aids, kitchen and eating aids and tips for clothing and personal care:

Wearing a discreet but clear dementia-friendly lanyard can help the public and service workers identify when someone may need additional support. This can prompt patience and understanding in public environments like shops or transport hubs;
Consider getting the Sunflower lanyard;
Badges may also be used instead;
For individuals who enjoy walking but are at a risk of becoming disorientated, or lost, tools like Apple’s Airtag or similar GPS tracking devices can be invaluable. Carers have found these especially useful for providing peace of mind, knowing they can locate their loved one quickly if needed;
Mobility aids: Many Individuals living with Dementia may also experience issues with balance or become confused in unfamiliar spaces. Having access to walking sticks, rollator walkers, or foldable stools or chairs can improve both safety and confidence whilst out and about;
Communication and Interaction Tips: While not a gadget, human behaviour is a key tool in supporting Someone with Dementia. Being calm, speaking slowly and clearly, showing kindness and patience - all of these go along way in ensuring a positive and respectful interaction;
Large Digital Clocks: These often show not just the time, but the date, day of the week, whether it is morning or afternoon, and even weather details. Their large, clear displays are particularly helpful in reducing confusion and orientating time or the day.

*Digital Clocks Displaying the time, date, day of the week can help reduce confusion.*

*Location trackers can provide peace of mind.*

*Medication management can be made easier with the use of Gadgets.*

Reminder Devices: Reminder Devices are Devices that play scheduled voice messages to remind a person when to eat, take medication or attend appointments;
Medication safe boxes, that only unlock at the right times (helps the Person with Dementia know when and if the last tablets were taken). Doset Boxes are often used too;

*Door alarms and sensors alert Carers if the Person with Dementia tries to leave when at unusual hours.*

Medication Management can be made easier with gadgets like Pill dispensers with alarms, automated dispensers that beep or flash when it's time to take medicines, or Locked Medication boxes, to avoid overdosing or any other confusion with medicines;
Motion-Sensor Lights help prevent falls by lighting up hallways or bathrooms automatically;
Door Alarms and sensors are great as they alert Carers if the Person tries to leave home at unusual hours;
Memory Books or Boards filled with photos, memories, fun facts, key facts about family members, routines or past experiences are helpful for reminiscing;
Picture Phones are telephones with large buttons and pictures instead of numbers that can help the Person with Dementia call their loved ones easily;
Voice assisted Gadgets like Google or Alexa - can help the Person play music, set reminders, ask questions etc.;

*Picture phones can help the Person with Dementia call their loved ones easily.*

High Contrast Tableware helps distinguish food from the plate, especially for those People with processing difficulties (this is more common in Lewy Bodies);
No spill mugs, and weighted utensils: makes eating and drinking easier and more dignified;
No slip mats, and cups are also very helpful eating aids;
When it come to clothing, Velcro or Magnetic Fastenings replace buttons and zips to make dressing and undressing easier;
Having the clothes lined up in order of how they're meant to be put on can help;
Bathing Aids include non-slip mats, bath seats, temperature sensitive plugs that have a sensor for when the water is too hot and will change colour accordingly.

Listen To The Corresponding Dementia Hour Episode