TV presenter Ruth Langsford has spoken candidly about the emotional and physical demands of caring for a loved one, as she backs a new campaign aimed at supporting the UK’s unpaid carers.
Langsford, who cares for her elderly mother Joan, who has Alzheimer’s, is partnering with Amazon and charity Dementia Carers Count to launch a free visual guide designed to help carers make the most of Alexa-enabled devices.
The initiative aims to ease the daily pressure of caregiving, particularly during the summer months when many support services are stretched or unavailable.
“I know firsthand how being a carer is a relentless responsibility – you’re constantly juggling responsibilities and at times it can be overwhelming,” said Langsford. “I’m proud to support this initiative with Alexa and Dementia Carers Count. The guide is packed with information on how to alleviate small pressures that come with being a carer, and if technology can offer carers a little relief, that’s something really worth celebrating.”
The collaboration follows research by Dementia Carers Count which found that 71 per cent of unpaid carers feel they don’t receive enough support, and over a third describe the role as a full-time, round-the-clock commitment.
With more than 900,000 people in the UK living with dementia, and one in two Britons expected to either provide or need dementia care in their lifetime, the partnership offers small but meaningful ways to ease the burden.
Developed using insights from unpaid carers and healthcare professionals, the new Alexa guide outlines 15 features to assist with everyday caregiving. These include setting reminders for medication or meals, using “Drop In” for room-to-room or remote check-ins, and managing shopping lists hands-free. For those using the Echo Show, Alexa can also display family photos to create a familiar and comforting home environment.
Frances Lawrence, CEO of Dementia Carers Count, said: “With summer holidays underway, many carers are feeling additional strain without their usual support networks. While technology can’t solve every challenge, working with Amazon Alexa means we can offer practical tips that make everyday caregiving tasks a little easier.”
Meryem Tom, Director Alexa UK added: "At Amazon, we're passionate about understanding how Alexa can better support diverse communities.
“Our customers tell us Alexa has become an essential companion for caregivers, offering reminders, communication and entertainment.
“Working with Dementia Carers Count and Ruth, we've created this guide to help carers use Alexa for reassurance, maintaining routines, and hands-free assistance when they need it most."
Further functionalities and an in-depth guide can be found on www.dementiacarers.org.uk/amazonalexa.
