Aumens

A compass for independence

An estimated one in five people will develop dementia at some point in their lives. A common symptom is disorientation, caused by the loss of a sense of direction and a reduced ability to recognise the environment. As a result, freedom of movement declines, even though regular walking supports physical and mental well-being. Yet, on average, 40 per cent of people with dementia do not go outside even once a week. This increases pressure on relatives and informal carers and creates societal costs, including missing person incidents and premature admission to nursing homes.

The Compass is a user-friendly device that helps people with dementia find their way independently. Thanks to its built-in GPS chip, the compass needle always points homeward. An app also allows loved ones and carers to see the user’s location. The result is greater freedom of movement and an improved quality of life. With its familiar design, the Compass does not look like a medical device and avoids stigma. Rather than creating additional care tasks, it increases the autonomy of both the user and the carer.