Dementia Phone vs CallGenie : In-Depth Comparison

Dementia, a broad category of brain diseases that cause a long-term and often gradual decrease in the ability to think and remember, affects millions of elderly people worldwide. It significantly impairs daily functioning, making effective communication increasingly challenging for those affected. In this context, technology, especially video calling devices like CallGenie, plays a crucial role in bridging the communication gap between people with dementia and their loved ones.

Understanding Dementia's Impact on Communication

Dementia can alter cognitive functions such as memory, understanding, and judgment, affecting the individual's ability to engage in regular phone conversations. As dementia progresses, individuals may find it difficult to recognise voices, follow along with audio-only cues, or even forget to hold a phone. This condition necessitates an alternative approach to communication that accommodates their changing abilities.

Advantages of Video Calling Devices Over Traditional Telephones

• Visual Recognition: Video calls allow those with dementia to see the face of the person they are talking to, which can help their recognition and recall. Visual cues are often stronger than auditory ones for memory retention and emotional connection, making video calls more effective than traditional phone calls.


• Non-verbal Communication: Body language and facial expressions, crucial for emotional sharing, are completely lost in standard telephone conversations. Video calling technology, like CallGenie, enables users to observe these non-verbal cues, enhancing understanding and empathy between the caller and the recipient.


• Engagement and Interaction: Video calls can be more engaging for people with dementia, holding their attention better than audio-only calls. This is particularly important in the later stages of dementia where individuals may not respond as actively to a regular phone call.


• Simplicity and Accessibility: Devices like CallGenie are designed with simplicity in mind, offering capabilities such as automatic answering. This contrasts with mobile phones and traditional telephones, which can be complicated to operate for someone with cognitive decline.


• Safety and Supervision: Video calling devices can also function as a tool for caregivers to check on people with dementia more frequently, ensuring their safety and well-being without being physically present at all times.


• Enhanced Autonomy and Reduced Isolation: By facilitating easier communication, video calling devices help reduce feelings of isolation, a common issue among the elderly with dementia. They provide a sense of normalcy and autonomy in their interactions, crucial for mental health and emotional well-being.

Why CallGenie Stands Out

CallGenie specifically addresses the needs of those with dementia  by connecting directly to a television, offering a larger display that is easier for the elderly person to view. The system’s design for automatic operation removes the need for user input, which can be a significant barrier for those with cognitive impairments. Furthermore, the incorporation of real-time subtitles caters to those who may have hearing difficulties, a common co-occurrence with both the elderly and those with dementia.

Conclusion

As the global population ages and the prevalence of dementia increases, the need for adapted communication technologies becomes more acute. Video calling devices, such as CallGenie, represent a significant advancement over traditional telephones, particularly for those with dementia. They not only improve the quality of communication but also enhance the overall quality of life for those with dementia by keeping them connected with their families and caregivers in a more meaningful way. These devices embody a compassionate approach to technology, where the focus is on enhancing human connection and supporting those in society who are most vulnerable.