How Technology Enabled Care is helping David overcome health issues to thrive

Diagnosed with epilepsy in 2013 and facing mental health struggles, David thought he wouldn’t be able to work again, live independently or even go for a walk in the countryside on his own.

But with the help of Technology Enabled Care (TEC) equipment, David’s life has been transformed. He uses a falls alarm, tablet and Brain in Hand app, which he received through the Dorset Council’s TEC lounge appointment system in Dorchester.

“If I was to have a seizure and fall to the ground, the alarm would send an alert to a calls response centre. It has a GPS built in, so wherever I am it will send an alert with my location.

“So, it really gives you a sense of security. The battery lasts a long time so that will do me a good day’s walking.”

Amanda Shelvey, occupational therapist with the Dorset Council TEC team, said: “It is important to support people with their independence.

“It means that they have the control over the decisions they want to make and can feel safe and be able to call for assistance when they want to.”

David said that, like many people with epilepsy, memory is one of his biggest struggles. He has a tablet which has eight different alarms, including visual prompts regarding timing to take his meds.

And he also uses a Brain in Hand app, which includes a traffic light system.

“If you are struggling, you explain what you are struggling with – say anxiety or low mood. It has solutions like do a short breathing exercise or write down what is making you feel how you are, so in my case I put on music.”

Commenting on TEC, David said he felt sometimes it was seen as a way of making processes easier for the workforce and not how it can help an individual in a daily life and so it needs to be an enhancement to their care.

David has started working part-time as a voice of lived experience – not just his own but other people.

He has been carer for other people as well as having care and support needs himself. I never thought I’d work again – I’m so please to be given this opportunity.

Walking is so important to me – the elements – the wind, sun, rain, the grass, everything – it makes you feel alive.”

Speaking about the care support he has received, David said: “They’ve made a huge difference to my life – I wouldn’t be where I am today – working, thriving and living on my own with their support. Care can’t wait.”

• David’s case study was featured in an ADASS national Spring Seminar that has taken place this week. To watch the video - Dave's story: 'No one knows what is coming around the corner'
• For information about the Dorchester TEC Lounge - Live independently with Technology Enabled Care (TEC) - Dorset Council

Ends