Apps that could make life easier for carers
In the last blog we provided an overview of the devices that can help – read here.
In this blog we are giving you a rundown of the apps that you might not have heard about that could help you keep track of everything you have going on. From scheduling tools to wellbeing apps, here are some useful and easy-to-use apps that can make life a little smoother.
Jointly
This app is great if you are sharing caring responsibilities with others and has been designed with carers in mind. Created by Carers UK, it allows you to coordinate care with others by sharing notes, appointments, medication lists and more. Whether you’re part of a family or friendship group sharing responsibilities, or just want everything in one place, Jointly can make sure you are all up to date on the latest information about someone’s care. It’s free and there is a premium version that is paid for that has other features available.
Medication reminder apps
There are some really useful apps out there to help people remember to take their medication. They provide reminders to you, and often a back up person too, so that doses aren’t missed. On some of them you can also track side effects and receive tips about the medicines you’re managing. Take a look at Medisafe and MyTherapy.
Headspace / Calm
Taking care of someone else can be emotionally demanding. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditation, stress management tools, and calming sounds to help you unwind even if just for five minutes a day. There are free trials available so you can try it before you access the full subscription.
Money saving
There are brilliant apps like Trolley and Too Good To Go that help with budgeting and saving money. Trolley compares supermarket prices to help you save money, while Too Good To Go lets you buy leftover food from shops and restaurants at big discounts.
Keeping in touch
Sometimes, the most helpful thing is a chat with someone who understands. Use group messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger to stay connected with friends, support groups, or other carers.
My House of Memories
My House of Memories is a project and app from The National Museums Liverpool, developed to help carers and health and social providers, deliver a positive quality of life experience for people living with dementia. It allows you to explore objects from the past and share memories together. It can be used by anyone, but has been designed for, and with, people living with dementia and their carers.
These apps aren’t a magic fix but they can help ease the load. If you’re unsure where to start, try downloading just one app and exploring how it fits into your day. Most of them should be available where you usually download your apps on your phone.