RecallCue: Making Caregiving Easier from Anywhere

Assisting our aging parents, especially if they're dealing with dementia or mild cognitive impairment, is no small feat. It's even trickier when you can't be there in person all the time. Technological tools like RecallCue can be a lifesaver! Let’s dive in and take a look at this easy technology that can help with lots of problems from one little tablet.

My grandmother calls my mom several times a day to find out what is next on her agenda of events at the assisted living community. RecallCue can put her agenda directly onto the iPad so she can look at it whenever she has a question.

We have several clients who could use RecallCue as a medication reminder as well as to remind them when our staff is coming to visit them.

How RecallCue Works 

So, here's the deal with RecallCue. It's a two-part system designed to make life easier for our elderly loved ones. First, there's the RecallCue Day Clock, which transforms any iPad or Android tablet into a super simple, easy-to-read clock that shows the day, time, and date. Then, there's the RecallCue mobile app that we, the caregivers, can use to send messages, reminders, photos, and even make video calls. It's like being there, even when you're not!

What We Love About RecallCue

 Easy-to-Read Display and Customizable Features:  The large, clear display is fantastic. It helps our loved ones keep track of time easily. Plus, you can set alarms for all kinds of reminders, like doctor appointments, meals, or wake-up calls. 

Remote Communication and Control: You can send messages, reminders, photos, and make video calls right from your phone. It’s super convenient to manage everything remotely.

Document Sharing: This feature is a gem! You can upload and display important documents, which is handy in emergencies. Consider the case where you need to get an updated medication list to emergency services.
Music & Photo Display Function: You can set up a photo slideshow to play on the clock, which is a lovely way to share memories and keep loved ones up to date on out-of-town family members. Anyone who is on the network and has the app can send photos so it can be changed and updated often. Playing music remotely can be both enjoyable and stimulating for them.

Our Team's Thoughts

 Julia: "The rotating photo display is a fantastic feature. It can trigger fond memories, and family members can remotely update the photo rotation to keep it interesting!"

Shani: "The medical document display feature is a lifesaver in emergencies. As a home-care nurse, I find it particularly valuable. I also love the ability to send medication and appointment reminders. I love the day clock choices that you can display from the app. You can put on the time, day, and date but you can also display an agenda. This would be a great thing for our social clients.”

Jamie: “I love the drop-in video call feature. You can just pop in and check on loved ones anytime. It really helps combat loneliness and boredom.

What Could Be Better

Device Requirements and Compatibility Issues: You need an iPad or Android tablet to use RecallCue, which might not work for everyone. It would be awesome if it could pair with a smart TV too. Plus, older devices might not be compatible, which is a bummer.

Cost: There's a free basic plan, but the best features like instant messaging, Google Calendar integration, alarms, music, and video calls require a paid Pro subscription. It is at a low cost so definitely worth it if you can afford it.

Power Requirements: The device needs to be charged or kept plugged in all the time, which can be a hassle, especially if there are power outages or if the user forgets to keep it charged.

Our Team's Thoughts

Julia: "I find the device requirements especially limiting. It’s not like a person is going to go purchase a new iPad just to be able to run this app."

Shani: "Having to keep the device charged or plugged in can be a barrier for anyone with cognitive impairment. If the device dies, the app doesn’t do any good."

Jamie: “I wish it had a “read” option for our loved ones who have vision issues.”

Despite a few limitations, RecallCue offers great benefits like easy remote communication, customizable alarms, music, and photo sharing. It's a valuable tool for anyone looking to stay connected and assist their loved ones with daily routines from anywhere.

Curious to learn more? Check out their website and see how this innovative tool can make a difference in your caregiving journey!

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