New prototypes may help dementia patients

A series of new prototypes are being considered by the government as a means to help people with dementia live independently.

The Department of Health and the Design Council are considering the use of plug-in scent sprays, which emit fragrances three times a day to make patients hungry, wristband alarms to alert services when patients fall, and training dogs to assist older adults with dementia.

Measures to make life easier for carers will also be trialled, including programmes to help carers find flexible work.

Paul Burstow, care services minister, commented: "Fear of dementia can leave people feeling powerless and trapped, leaving them isolated and unsupported.

"That is why we have worked with the Design Council to drive innovation in dementia care."

Last week, Angela Rippon, an Alzheimer's Society ambassador, and Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the charity, were among those taking up the government's dementia challenge to create communities to help patients living with the condition.

Find out about dementia care and support services at Barchester care homes.