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 reminders for appointments, visits, or activities? | Display the event in the morning, add a reminder as the event time approaches | "Doctor’s appointment Hairdresser Lunch with William Bingo in the community room" |
|
| Snacks or Hydration: Does your loved one need reminders to have a snack or drink water? | Recurring reminders every day mid-morning and mid-afternoon | "It's time to eat a fruit (apple, banana…) and drink some water." | |
| Hygiene | Teeth brushing: Does your loved one need reminders to brush their teeth? | Recurring reminders after each meal | "After each meal, it’s important to brush your teeth for good oral hygiene." |
| Hand washing: Does your loved one forget to wash their hands? | Reminders at every relevant moment (before eating, after going to the toilet, etc.) | "Don’t forget to wash your hands to stay healthy!" | |
| Safety | Cooking: Does your loved one forget to turn off the stove or oven? | Reminders during cooking | "Remember to turn off the stove or oven after cooking." |
| Phone: Does your loved one forget to hang up the phone? | Reminders after each call | "Don’t forget to hang up the phone after each call." |