Is a tag right for you?
A tag can reassure a family and help someone stay independent for longer. It also affects the person's privacy and freedom, so it is worth deciding carefully, and together.
1. Ask them first
Only use a tag with the agreement of the person who will carry it. Talk it through with them first: what it is, how it helps, and who will see the alerts. Alzheimer's Society guidance says consent is especially important for devices like this, because they can take away privacy or restrict freedom.
2. If they can't decide this for themselves
Someone with dementia may still be able to make this decision, with the right support. If they can't, a decision can be made on their behalf, in their best interests, involving them as far as possible and talking to family and the professionals who know them. In England and Wales this is set out in the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own laws, so ask your local adult social care team.
- Choose the least restrictive option that meets the need.
- Write down who was involved and why you decided it was right.
- Review it regularly. After 90 days Nudgent shows a review reminder on the person's screen and on Today, asking whether the tag is still wanted and needed. Put a reminder in your own diary too.
3. A tag is not a way to stop someone leaving
Alzheimer's Society guidance is clear that a person with dementia should never be locked in when on their own. If you are unsure whether something you are doing restricts the person's freedom, ask adult social care at your local council. Nudgent has no door lock or "geofence" feature and won't add one.
4. Think about the other options too
Depending on the person and the home, other things may suit better or work alongside a tag: a conversation about where they like to walk and company for those walks, door sensors and other telecare, a GPS device that can show location, or a plan with neighbours. Your local council or an occupational therapist can advise, and the Alzheimer's Society has information on safer walking.
- Alzheimer's Society: Walking about (factsheet 501)
- Alzheimer's Society: Using technology to help with everyday life (factsheet 437)
5. Be honest about what a tag adds
A Bluetooth tag only tells your phone it has gone out of range. If you need to know where someone is, you need a different kind of device, and the same questions about agreement and best interests apply to it. See what a tag can't do.