Introduction to Dementia Care in Switzerland
As families face the realities of caring for loved ones with dementia, innovative solutions are emerging in Switzerland. With an aging population, approximately 60% of dementia patients are currently cared for at home, highlighting the importance of advanced technologies.
Innovative Solutions for Daily Care
Bastian and Florin Cantieni, two brothers from Zurich, have embraced modern technology to support their father, who suffers from dementia. With the help of robots and GPS trackers, they are redefining home care. Their father’s journey with dementia began six years ago when he first struggled to remember significant occasions and everyday words.
Adapting Home Environment with Technology
The Cantieni brothers quickly realized that traditional care methods weren’t enough. They began their quest for innovative tools, discovering that they could integrate fun and engaging devices to maintain their father’s quality of life. For instance, they use a small robot that plays sounds and interacts with their father, making his home environment more stimulating.
The Role of GPS in Safety
As their father’s condition worsened, tracking devices became essential. Initially, they attached GPS trackers to his personal belongings, but as he wandered more frequently, they decided to invest in a children’s smartwatch equipped with GPS. This device allowed them to set safety parameters, notifying them whenever he ventured too far from home.
Monitoring Daily Activities
To further assist with his daily routines, the brothers installed voice-activated speakers that remind their father to eat or drink regularly. These reminders help mitigate the anxiety related to disorientation, which is common in dementia patients. They also set up tablets that display the time and date, serving as helpful visual cues.
Engaging and Companion Robots
To alleviate feelings of loneliness, the brothers have introduced interactive stuffed animals that react to sounds, making their father smile and providing him with companionship. This use of technology not only fosters emotional connections but also engages different senses, crucial for dementia patients.
Communication Remains Key
Despite the technological advancements, the brothers emphasize that technology cannot replace human contact. They ensure that they spend quality time with their father, participating in daily activities together, which enhances their relationship and provides him a sense of stability.
Challenges and Ethical Considerations
Managing their father’s care while balancing their own professional lives has been a significant challenge for the Cantieni brothers. They acknowledge the ethical implications of surveillance technologies, stressing the importance of transparency and consent in the geriatric care context.
Seeking Professional Support
As their father’s condition has progressed, additional support has become necessary. The brothers rely on home care services and day clinics to assist with his needs, showcasing the importance of a support network in dementia care.
Conclusion: A New Era of Dementia Care
The Cantieni brothers’ story is a testament to how technology can improve the quality of life for dementia patients while providing their families with peace of mind. They aspire to share their experiences and insights with other caregivers, paving the way for a more informed approach to integrating technology into daily care practices. Their journey illustrates that with the right tools and support, families can navigate the challenges of dementia while fostering dignity and independence for their loved ones.
