New app for people with dementia launches

The app, Get There Together, is funded by the Welsh Government

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has developed new app has been launched to help individuals with dementia to live confidently.

Get There Together, funded by the Welsh Government, has been developed to help people living with dementia to maintain independence, engage with daily routines and access services in their communities.

It comes after a set of videos were made during the COVID-19 pandemic to support people living with dementia in adjusting to new routines and public health measures.

The new app includes a library of encouraging videos that provide reassurance and familiarity for daily activities and a day planner.

Dr. Natalie Elliott, Project Lead and National Consultant Allied Health Professions (AHP) Lead for Dementia at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, said: “We recognise the psychological and emotional impact of a dementia diagnosis on a person and their families and carers- during the pandemic this was further exacerbated, with daily activities, such as going for a walk or doing the weekly shop, changing drastically.

“The videos and digital stories developed in partnership with NHS colleagues, local authority partners and other organisations were incredibly successful, achieving over a million views.

“We hope the app will offer reassurance to help people living with dementia and their carers to feel confident and connected as they continue to engage with their communities.”

The app has been developed in collaboration with NHS Wales, local authorities, and third sector organisations and available from the App Store and Google Play Store.