Assistive technology is providing more possibilities for those with Alzheimer's, as well as for their caregivers, by maximizing independence, improving quality of life, easing behavioral problems and reducing caregiver burden.

Assistive technology are often common items or tools that help the elderly or disabled do the activities they have always done but must now do differently.

November is National Caregivers Month, a time when the MAC Center recognizes and thanks unpaid caregivers for everything they do.

Currently, there are more than 65 million unpaid caregivers in the United States, of that 25 percent or 16 million of them providing care for people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.  

Over 294,000 Marylanders provided 335,000,000 hours of unpaid care for family members with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Helping caregivers with information about assistive technology is the focus of MAC’s activities this month.

The Caregiver’s Resource Center offers many devices and videos that make caregiving easier especially for those dealing with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Janet Parke, Director of MAC’s Caregiver’s Resource Center, said: “When folks come into MAC’s Caregiver’s Resource Center, they generally have something in mind that has been frustrating them in caring for their loved one. They are looking for tools, tips that will improve the independence of their loved one, their family life and to make things just easier.”

Use of assistive technology can contribute to the improvement and maintenance of the quality of life of both patients and their caregivers.

There are devices that can improve medication management, home safety, and are critical to the ability to perform simple activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and going to the bathroom.  Caregivers can find helpful items to manage the repetitive questions, agitation and even help with reminiscence.

The Caregivers Resource Center is open by appointment.

To make an appointment please call Mike Hedlesky at 410-742-0505 ext. 166 or mhedlesky@macinc.org.