Carers of people with dementia and the use of assistive technologies

Assistive technologies have a role in supporting both formal and informal carers of people with dementia. Whilst assistive technologies have a role in maintaining the independence and quality of life of both people with dementia and their carers, their use has both disadvantages and advantages, can pose challenges for all concerned, and raises ethical dilemmas. In this chapter, a model derived from Arnstein's ladder of participation is used to highlight the importance of empowering and connecting with carers in order to increase their participation in the care of their relative or client. Empowerment and connection contribute to maintaining the autonomy and well-being of both carers and people with dementia: technological interventions should not be used as alternatives to connection. The emphasis in practice should be on empowering and connecting with both carers and people with dementia.