Smart Tech Trial Brings Peace of Mind to Dementia Families
New Technology Offers Hope for Dementia Safety Across the Region
A groundbreaking initiative is underway across Devon and Cornwall, bringing innovative safety solutions to thousands of families affected by dementia. Devon and Cornwall Police have partnered with Plymouth-based charity Memory Matters to trial wearable devices designed to quickly reunite missing dementia patients with their loved ones. The scheme addresses a genuine concern for local families: over 40,000 people across the UK experience dementia-related wandering each year, leaving carers anxious about their safety.
The technology on trial includes NFC-enabled wristbands and small tags that work similarly to mobile contactless payment systems. When someone spots a person who appears lost or confused, they can simply hold their smartphone near the device to access crucial contact information. This means any member of the public becomes part of the safety network. Alongside these tags, Bluetooth-enabled tracking tiles are being tested, allowing police to pinpoint someone’s location in real time using GPS technology. The devices are manufactured by Lumiio, a company working with multiple police forces nationally to enhance dementia safeguarding.
How Local Families Are Already Benefiting
For families like Paul Burton’s, this technology represents a genuine lifeline. Paul’s wife received an early-onset dementia diagnosis at just 57 years old and regularly travels into Plymouth by bus to attend Cognitive Stimulation Therapy sessions run by Memory Matters. The ability to track her journey and confirm she’s arrived safely has transformed his peace of mind. He’s particularly impressed by the practical design choices—the bright yellow colour of the tracking tiles means members of the public feel confident approaching someone wearing one if they appear to be struggling or disoriented.
Memory Matters CEO Kate Smith emphasises that the goal isn’t restricting independence but enabling it. “Nobody ever knows when someone is going to go missing, but we want people to be able to go out and about, to enjoy their lives and do as much as they can for as long as they can,” she explains. The devices store only essential information—a name and next of kin contact number—respecting privacy while maximising safety. Only the person setting up the device needs to download the accompanying app, keeping the system simple for family carers managing multiple responsibilities.
What Local Residents Should Know and How to Get Involved
If you or someone you know is affected by dementia, this trial represents an opportunity to access cutting-edge safety technology. Whether you live near busy areas like Fistral Beach, enjoy visiting Newquay, or reside elsewhere across Devon and Cornwall, the scheme aims to benefit our entire community. Memory Matters has been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life and continues supporting people through therapy and community programmes.
Dementia safeguarding sergeant Dan Timmins notes: “Any member of the public with a smartphone can simply hover it over the band or tag and it will give pertinent information that can assist the next of kin, or the police, in locating them.” This means everyone has a role to play. If you spot someone wearing one of these devices who seems confused or lost, you know exactly how to help. For families interested in participating or learning more about Memory Matters’ services, which include Cognitive Stimulation Therapy and ongoing support, contacting the organisation directly is the first step. Watch this space for updates on the trial’s outcomes and wider rollout plans across the region.
Source: New devices could keep people with Dementia safe
