myhomehelper

myhomehelper: a remotely managed tablet for people living with memory loss

myhomehelper is a tablet computer conceived for people living with memory issues or who struggle with modern technology. Its defining characteristic is that the person using it does not need to interact with the device at all: the features appear on screen without the user having to touch or press anything. The content and timing are managed by a carer or family member through a secure web control panel accessible from anywhere.

The system was originally created by Kevin Marsch to help him care for his mother, Pat, who was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia in 2010. After observing how the tool reduced her anxiety, he continued adding features. Following positive feedback from carers, doctors and paramedics, he left his job in 2011 and founded Simpla Solutions to make myhomehelper available to others.

Features built around zero user interaction

The tablet bundles a set of functions that are delivered without any action required from the person in front of the screen. According to the company, the key features include:

• Calendar and clock
• Daily and weekly diary
• Timed and random reminders
• Auto-answer video calling
• Photos
• Instant messaging via SMS and web
• News headlines
• Talking text

Video calls are initiated from the carer's end and answered automatically on the myhomehelper device, so the user does not have to sign in or accept a call. Reminders can be configured to appear and reappear a chosen number of times over a given period, and photos can be sent directly from a phone to the display.

Who it is aimed at

The product is presented for people caring for someone with memory issues, including dementia and Alzheimer's, as well as for relatives who find contemporary technology difficult to use. The company states that myhomehelper is used around the world for a variety of conditions, and that families employ it to stay in touch with loved ones who live elsewhere, including from overseas.

Reported benefits and evaluation

The manufacturer lists the following benefits: increased independence, reduced anxiety and depression, reduced feelings of isolation, memory stimulation and reminiscence, and peace of mind for family and friends. It indicates that these benefits were experienced personally by the creator and have also been reported anecdotally by customers, as well as observed in independent evaluations.

Pricing, trial and purchase conditions

The catalogue at the time of writing lists several pricing packages starting from £199.99 ex VAT. Every package is described as including a myhomehelper 10.1 inch display, a flexible display stand, a 12-month warranty, online technical support, unlimited video calls, unlimited photo uploads and access for as many people as the purchaser wishes. The company notes that myhomehelper qualifies for VAT exemption for people with a disability or long-term medical condition, including dementia and Alzheimer's. A 21-day money-back guarantee applies, and a free 14-day trial account can be requested without obligation, including on the user's own device without downloads.

Awards and recognition

myhomehelper states that it has won or been a finalist in several awards: Highly Commended in Best Use of Technology at the 2018 Building Better Healthcare Awards; Emerging Technology Finalist at the 2016 HEY Digital Awards; Top Care App at the 2015 ADASS and Tech UK Care App Showcase; Outstanding Dementia Care Product/Innovation at the 2014 National Dementia Care Awards; and, at the 2013 AbilityNet Technology4Good Awards, winner of the People's Choice Award and runner-up in the Accessibility Award.