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Staying connected safely – Internet & phone safety

Connections are important for everyone but particularly so for those living with dementia. Staying connected can reduce feelings of isolation, improve emotional wellbeing, support cognitive function and potentially slow down the progression of dementia symptoms. Whilst factual memories may fade, emotional memories are often retained and positive emotional connection can leave people feeling safe, secure and happy.


Finding opportunities for social interactions, communication and engagement are often harder for those who have moved away from friends or families. It is important to engage with activities in the local community as in person interactions are really important. However, for familiarity it is equally important to maintain relationships to those closest to us but geographically distanced.

Staying connected with dementia

Fortunately, advances in technology enable us to stay connected with loved ones through virtual interactions, such as video calls as well as enabling access to a wealth of resources and entertainment online.


Whilst technology has opened up new ways to encourage mental and social stimulation and support independent living it also opens the door to potential risks. People living with dementia can be especially vulnerable to online and phone scams so it is important that families and carers can support them with safety measures and encourage them to seek help before sharing personal information or clicking on potentially false links. Providing we remain alert and cautious, have measures in place such as installation of antivirus software and strong passwords then technology should be embraced.  It is a good idea to have a trusted person, ideally a family member, who can ensure that devices are set up securely and support with any technology questions.


Below are some top tips to stay connected safely


Phone safety:

  • Personal Information: Never respond directly to any request over the phone or by text for personal or banking information. If requested end the call or ignore the text and contact the organisation direct to verify it is an authentic request.

  • Caller ID: Install caller ID so that any incoming calls can be screened. If the number is not recognised, you can choose not to answer it, if it’s important, the person can leave a message or call you back.

  • Telephone preference service: Register to prevent unwanted phone calls to landlines and mobiles, you can register online at www.tpsonline.org.uk

  • Verify: If a call is received and you are not sure it is legitimate, take details and then check the official website to verify contact details or ask someone to help you verify the call.

  • Phone styles: To keep things simple if a phone is only being used for a couple of tasks such as text message, voice or video calls then choose a phone with a simplified interface. These can be set up with larger buttons and icons and other dementia-friendly features to support safer use.

 

Online Safety

  • Antivirus Software: Make sure that you install this on every device, not just computers but also tablets and phones

  • Updates: Keep your devices updated by completing the recommended updates for the operating system. You should receive alerts when this is needed but it can also be manually checked.

  • Passwords: Use a strong password that does not include your name or date of birth. Password manager apps can be helpful to securely create, store and manage passwords. Most online accounts e.g. a Google account, come with a built-in password manager so you do not have to select a paid for service to do this.

  • Privacy settings: This is especially important on social media accounts to limit interactions only to selected and known people.

  • Emails:  Be aware of any messages from unknown senders or anything that contains suspicious links. Rather than click the link, search for the website page it is claiming to direct you to in order to verify it.

  • Websites: If you are online shopping it is important to verify the authenticity of the site. You can check the contact details and any online reviews. If in doubt do not make a purchase!

  • Social media: Connection through social media can be really positive to connect to old friends, stay in contact with family, reminisce and also join local community groups. However, it is crucial that accounts are set up with tight privacy settings and people are supported, when necessary, to navigate it safely, check messages and notifications as well as avoid any false or harmful content. Only respond to people known to you. Always take a break from social media if it is not positively supporting your wellbeing, sometimes it can be overwhelming.


Scams

There are thousands of fraudulent texts and emails sent every day which are catching out even the most regular online or phone users. These are often people pretending to be your bank, HMRC, other government services (a current scam includes a fraudulent link to claim winter living

Phone safety for those living with dementia

allowance), royal mail or other delivery services. Some may even claim you have been a victim of a scam, and they are helping to fix it for you!


-        Never share any personal or financial information

-        Don’t click any unknown links

-        Don’t be pressurised to rush to do anything

-        Stay Alert, Check for spelling errors, link addresses, requests for information, threats to close accounts or time-pressured requests.


If you are the victim of a scam, don’t blame yourself; you are not alone and there is support. It can be very distressing, both emotionally and potentially financially. It is important to speak to someone if you think you may have been the victim of a scam or noticed any suspicious activity.

Report any fraud online or by calling Action Fraud

Call: 0300 123 2040 anytime Monday -Friday 8am -8pm

Textphone: 0300 123 2050 if you are deaf or hard of hearing

Texts:  forward suspicious texts for free to 7726

Emails: forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.go.uk

 

Support

Unfortunately, no one can be totally protected whilst using online services however being aware and having a supportive network of trusted friends and family can help people stay safe.


Technology, when used safely, can strengthen social connections, maintain relationships, support independence and assist with daily living. For further information about assistive technology that can support people living with dementia check our website Dementia Support Technology | Sage House Sussex Smart Zone or speak to our knowledgeable wayfinding team.

 

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