Dementia and the iPad

December 17, 2010 11:59 AM

Dementia and the iPad: I've just purchased an iPad for my parents. My mother will take to it instantly, but my father has fairly advanced dementia. I want to load the device with apps he may find engaging. Research has revealed a few lists, but I'd love some suggestions based on actual experience.
posted by aladfar to Technology (4 answers total)

You don't describe what you think he'd find 'engaging,' so it's a bit difficult to judge. However, I just bought Aster for my mom. Since it's not social and doesn't rely on memory or time, maybe he'd find it interesting?
posted by mudpuppie at 12:33 PM on December 17, 2010

My mother, 85, has senile dementia and before her decline did not know how to use a computer or smartphone.

She looooooves playing with Koi Pond on my iPhone, to the extent that she will play keep-away with the phone when I try to reclaim it. It's kinda cute to see, actually.

She'll happily sit giggling and tapping at the screen, feeding the fish, listening to the water, for hours.
posted by BitterOldPunk at 12:43 PM on December 17, 2010 [5 favorites]

My company makes iOS apps that are very popular with autistic children. They are mentally engaging but simple (can't go wrong) and sort of meditative.

I don't know how well this would work for your dady, but I'll send you a promo code for a free copy via MeMail. Good luck!
posted by alms at 1:27 PM on December 17, 2010 [3 favorites]

My mother-in-law has Alzheimer's and enjoys playing Parachute Panic on the iPad. She needs a little coaching, and seems to lose interest if she's left alone with it for too long, but it entertains her for quite a while as long as there's somebody around to pay attention to her from time to time.
posted by Quietgal at 1:38 PM on December 17, 2010