Technology isn’t a silver bullet, but for people with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, digital tools have become meaningful supports in their daily routines. Studies show that mobile apps designed for dementia support can improve medication adherence, reduce caregiver burden, and promote independence.
A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics found that mobile-based cognitive interventions had a significantly positive effect on older adults' executive function, reasoning, short-term memory, and working memory.
Apps are particularly effective when designed with the user in mind - tailored to the cognitive, visual, and emotional needs of older adults. That’s where platforms like Elli Cares come in.
Humanizing Tech: The Rise of Dementia-Friendly Apps
Elli Cares, for example, offers features that go beyond basic reminders. Families can record video messages that feel personal and familiar, providing both instruction and comfort. New features like Safe Track alert families if a loved one’s phone usage patterns change - potentially signalling a fall, confusion, or other concern. These functionalities transform the app into an early-warning system and emotional bridge between family members.
Other apps are entering the market too. MapHabit, for instance, uses visual cues and routines to support memory and task management. These kinds of apps don't aim to replace human care but to complement it - offering continuity when caregivers can't be present.
Real-World Results: Elli Cares Pilot With Alzheimer’s and Dementia New Zealand
In a recent 30-day pilot program with Alzheimer’s New Zealand and Dementia New Zealand, the Elli Cares app demonstrated measurable, positive outcomes for both people living with dementia and their care partners.
Among participants living with dementia:
- 90.9% said the app helps them take medications on time
- 72.7% felt less anxious about missing medicines
- 70% reported less stress around their medication routine
- 81.8% felt more confident in their daily life
- 81.8% said they worried less with the app by their side
- 100% stated they would miss the app if it was taken away (45.5% “a lot”)
- Net Promoter Score: 55 - a rating considered excellent
Among care partners:
- 100% found Elli Cares easy to use
- 66.7% felt more confident managing their loved one’s medications
- 66.7% reported less worry around medication adherence
- 88.8% would miss the app if it were unavailable
- Net Promoter Score: 45
These results underscore the power of thoughtful, inclusive tech that meets real-world needs. The emotional and practical value is clear: it’s not just about taking a pill - it’s about reducing stress, building confidence, and enabling independence.
Empowering Families and Caregivers
Support for family members is also a critical component. Tools like Elli Cares create a shared care environment, where multiple family members can contribute reminders, check in on daily activity, and feel less alone in the caregiving process.
If you’re supporting a loved one with dementia, you may also be interested in reading:
👉 How to Stay Independent Longer With Mild Cognitive Impairment
👉 How to Encourage Medication Adherence Without Conflict
Research Supports the Shift Toward Digital Support
One reason why digital interventions are gaining traction is their accessibility and scalability. The World Health Organization notes that global dementia cases are expected to triple by 2050. Supporting this rise with human resources alone is unsustainable - digital tools offer one part of the solution.
A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics examined the impact of mobile-based cognitive interventions on community-dwelling older adults. The study found that these tools can significantly improve executive function, working memory, and reasoning skills - critical aspects of maintaining independence for those experiencing cognitive decline.
Still, more robust clinical trials are needed to validate long-term impacts - something companies like Elli Cares are actively pursuing.
So, Can an App Help?
In short: yes - when designed well and used consistently, an app can significantly support both people living with dementia and their caregivers.
The key is thoughtful design, research-backed features, and an understanding that technology should serve the human experience, not complicate it.
As we move toward a more connected, aging population, these tools will only grow in relevance. For families navigating the uncertainty of dementia, having a little extra help in their pocket can mean a lot.
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