Customizable tablet to assist elderly with memory difficulties

Memo is a tablet which can be customized by caregivers to remind people with memory difficulties of important information.

Over recent months we’ve featured various electronic devices simplified for elderly users, as well as technology designed to help caregivers monitor patients or family members remotely. Now combining elements of both, Memo is a tablet which can be customized by caregivers to remind people with memory difficulties of important information. The ten inch internet-enabled device was developed by a team of gerontologists as a simple solution to the stress and daily disruption caused by short-term memory loss. Previous computer experience is not required from the user, and features can be added or removed depending on how comfortable they are with technology. The basic display shows the current date and time, and reminders and messages can be posted by family members and carers via the secure caregiver website. These reminders will then appear on the user’s tablet at the correct time. For more confident users, features like the calendar, to-do list, weather forecast, phone list, medication reminders and photo albums can be switched on. Carers can configure the display to suit the needs of the user, and they can also remotely set up access for other caregivers. Meanwhile, a help button will automatically alert carers by text and email when pressed. The Memo device costs USD 299 and the software is available on a six month subscription at USD 29 a month, or for twelve months at USD 25 a month. When Memo is no longer needed as a memory-assisting device, the original Android programming can be restored for use as a regular tablet. Memo enables families to extend care to elderly relatives even when not with them physically. Could there be more ways to help distant caregivers provide support remotely? Spotted by: Parul Rohatgi