New technology, such as a tracking device, can locate a senior loved one who might wander off. The i-tag-along GPS features live monitoring, can be programmed for boundaries and has an SOS call function. Companionship is another way to help keep safe those who suffer the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Q. My 87-year-old husband with Alzheimer’s disease is beginning to wander, and I am very concerned. Is there anything I can do?
Wandering is among the biggest problems that afflict Alzheimer’s patients and one that causes stress and fatigue for their caregivers. You will need support and respite to prevent from becoming ill yourself. Here’s an interesting resource: New technology is offering the i-tag-along GPS.
The small GPS tracking device can be used for many safety objectives such as tracking children or teenagers, but the main objective – where there can be the largest impact – is the protection of seniors with some form of dementia or Alzheimer’s, said Jenaro T. Centeno, principal of i-tag – Identity Solutions in St. Louis.
“Our GPS tracking device operates through global positioning satellites and has additional features such as live monitoring from any Internet-enabled computer, geofencing to establish a perimeter, text and email alerts and an SOS call function,” Centeno said.
About the size of a nine-volt battery, the GPS tracking device operates with a battery that lasts a week on average and is rechargeable, according to the company website. The i-tag-along GPS also can be programmed with a geofence – an area in which the person wearing it can travel, but if they leave that area, an alert will be sent via text, email or voice.
Talk with a geriatric care manager for more advice and information about caring for a senior loved one with special needs. (To find a geriatric care manager in your area, visit www.caremanager.org. As the disease progresses, you likely will need more assistance.
One valuable solution can be that of a professional caregiver. A caregiver can assist your husband around the home and, more important, provide a respite so you can rest or even get away for a few hours a day.
Many CAREGivers from the local Home Instead Senior Care® office have experience and are trained to care for older adults with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. CAREGivers are screened, trained, bonded and insured, and have successfully cleared criminal backgrounds checks. Assistance at home could be just what you need.
For more about the technology, visit http://www.i-tag.biz/1801.html.
