Usage Advice
Feel free to revisit this page, as more tips and usage advice will be added regularly!
Our tips and tricks to help you
How to introduce the clock to your loved one
As you begin your journey with Idem, we're here to ensure its seamless integration into your life and the life of your loved one.
We recommend testing the clock alone at home first. Send yourself a message, and take the opportunity to set the volume to a level that your loved one will enjoy. You can then test each type of communication and familiarize yourself with how it works. Once you're ready, you can install it in your loved one's home.
Position the clock in your loved one's field of vision (eg, facing their chair rather than beside it). If your loved one is reluctant, tell them that the clock is not only for them, but for the both of you.
1.
Once installed in your loved one's home, leave the clock in sight for a few days (suggest 3-5 days), without using the communication features (reminders, messages, events and notes). This will allow your loved one to get used to a new object in their home.
2.
Ensure you are in the same room as your loved one for the clock's first communication display. Begin with cheerful and affectionate messages to establish positive associations. By observing their reaction, you can make adjustments to the clock's placement or sound settings.
3.
Gradually introduce various communication features, according to their reaction.
What if your loved one is reluctant to use technology?
- Emphasize its role as a companion: Explain that Idem is more than just a care tool - it's there to keep them company and remind them of important dates and events. Show them how they can receive pictures of cherished memories of daily joys from it.
- A way to stay connected: Explain how Idem allows you to stay connected with them throughout the day, even when you can't be there in person. Let them know that it's a way for you to always be close, no matter the distance.
- Reassure your loved one: There are no consequences for not interacting with the clock. They do not need to reply or even touch the screen. It will continue to function properly as all messages vanish after some time, displaying the time and date.
Examples of communications
Here are some examples of communications you could send, along with questions to help you determine their relevance to your specific situation
| Category | Question to ask yourself | Type of communication to use | Example of content to write |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orientation | Waking up: Does your loved one need an alarm clock? | Recurring reminders every morning | "Good morning! I get up to go to the bathroom and get dressed." |
| Going to bed: Does your loved one need a reminder to go to bed? | Recurring reminders every night | "It's time to go to bed. Good night!" | |
| Autonomy | Medication: Does your loved one need help with medication? | Recurring reminders every day at the time of medication | "It's time to take your pills in the pill box." |
| Appointments: Does your loved one need to be reminded about appointments, visits, and activities? | Display the event as soon as your loved one gets up. *Tip: Add a reminder when the event time approaches |
"Doctor" "Hairdresser" "Dinner with William" "Bingo at the community hall" |
|
| Snack intake / Hydration: Does your loved one need to be reminded to eat a snack or drink water? | Recurring reminders every day in the middle of the morning and afternoon | "This is the time to eat a snack (apple, banana, etc.) and drink some water." | |
| Mealtime: Does your loved one need to be reminded to eat their meals? | Recurring reminders every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner | "It's lunch time and I'm going downstairs to the dining room." | |
| Meal prep: Does your loved one need help preparing meals? | Indicate preparation steps in the form of a note at meal times | "It's dinner time. I take the dish written 'Tuesday noon' in the refrigerator, and I put it in the microwave." | |
| Hygiene: Does your loved one need to be reminded of their daily hygiene? | Recurring reminders every day | "It's time to brush your teeth." "It’s time to wash your hands." |
|
| Hearing aids: Does your loved one need to be reminded to put on their hearing aids? | Recurrent note every morning | "Put on your hearing aids. Have a nice day!" | |
| Well-being | Recurring questions: Does your loved one ask recurring questions? | Display a single response as a note | "Dinner today will be chicken and vegetables." |
| Caregiver away: Does your loved one worry when you are away? | Note to remember where you are and when you'll be back | "William is at the grocery store. He will be back at 4 p.m." | |
| Social isolation: Is your loved one socially isolated? | Personal messages | "Have a good day Mom, I love you!" | |
| Activities: Does your loved one need to be reminded of the TV shows they enjoy? | Recurring event every week to remind them to watch their favorite show | "Hockey on channel 423" | |
| Activities: Does your loved one need to be encouraged to do activities? | Messages to suggest activities | "It’s time to do a crossword puzzle." | |
| Hanging up the phone: Does your loved one forget to hang up the phone? | Message telling them to hang up the phone | "Hello Mom! Hang up the phone by pressing the red button." |