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The best clocks for people with dementia
Dementia is undoubtedly challenging, but finding the right care and tools, such as a dementia-friendly clock, can help people with dementia to live independently and confidently.
What do people with dementia struggle with?
Dementia causes gradual (or sometimes rapid) cognitive decline, and it is more prevalent in people over 65 years old. Dementia may cause symptoms like short-term memory loss, impaired decision making and impaired problem-solving skills, which can lead those with this condition to feel worried, confused and even scared living alone. This means they may need help with everything from performing personal care tasks to taking medication.
In the early stages of dementia when older adults may still be able to live independently for the most part, having a dementia-friendly clock nearby can help them to better manage their day, and put their mind at ease about the day and time to reduce any anxiety they feel as they carry out their usual routines.
How do people with dementia benefit from having a clock?
Drawing a clock is a common part of a cognition test to find out if someone may have cognitive decline, as research shows people with dementia often struggle to read analogue clocks. In a 2025 study, over 93% of participants with dementia thought reminder clocks were essential for dementia care.
Anxiety and agitation are common in people with dementia, and may be triggered by anything from visiting the GP to not knowing what time it is. Being aware of the time and date helps them stick to a schedule, know when a caregiver will arrive, or know when to take medications, which can calm their anxiety. In addition, delirium is a common symptom of dementia, and according to the NHS, having a clock and a calendar visible to the person can help.
What features should a dementia-friendly clock have?
Dementia clocks are designed for those with cognitive decline who struggle to read analogue clocks, and who want to know what date, day, or even year it is. Dementia clocks usually feature:
- The day, date and time in clear, bold, easily-read and high contrast text
- Simple digital displays to reduce confusion
- An orienting word like ‘Morning’, ‘Afternoon’ or ‘Evening’
- Graphics, such as dark sky and stars for nighttime or blue sky and clouds for daytime
- Automatic updates when clocks change
- Reminder alarms for medications, appointments, or other helpful information
There are many different dementia clocks available, such as simple day/night clocks, digital clocks with multiple points of information, or talking clocks for those with vision impairments.
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Get in touch The best dementia-friendly clocks available in the UK
Some of the best dementia clocks available to buy in the UK include:
- The DayClox range, offering a digital screen with clear, easy-to-read text
- Rosebud Reminder Clock, with a simple screen, 20 reminders and 17 alarms you can set and record yourself
- Eugeria Idem Digital Dementia Clock, with the above features, plus the ability to use an app to send messages and reminders from a phone
- Relish ‘Day Hub’, which features the above features plus a list of daily tasks that can be altered depending on their schedule
“… with this here in the house, I know exactly what I should be doing as and when.”
– Day Hub user, via Alzheimer’s Society
Ultimately, you should select a model with the features that will suit your loved one’s abilities and preferences.
How can home care support people with dementia
Caregivers can help people with dementia by providing a sense of calm that technology cannot. While clocks are helpful, as their condition progresses to the late stages, a person with dementia may prefer someone to remain close by to ease their anxiety and support them during big changes like a new medication, or when clocks change.
Our Care Professionals deliver specialist dementia care developed using a programme created by dementia specialists and key medical practitioners from around the world, and has the Assured status from City & Guilds. We are rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). With our dementia care, you can ensure your loved one maintains their schedule at home.
Advice & Support
FAQs
- Why are special clocks important for people with dementia?
Special clocks help reduce confusion and anxiety by clearly displaying the time, day, and date. Many also include features like reminders for medication or meals, which can support daily routines and promote independence for individuals with dementia.
- What features should I look for in a clock for someone with dementia?
Key features to look for include:
- Large, easy-to-read displays.
- Clear indication of the time, day, and date.
- Options for digital or analogue formats, depending on preference.
- Built-in reminders for medication, meals, or appointments.
- Backlit or high-contrast screens for better visibility.
- Are there clocks that help with sundowning?
Yes, some clocks are designed to help with sundowning (confusion or agitation in the evening). These clocks may include:
- Day and night indicators to differentiate between morning and evening.
- Gentle lighting to create a calming environment.
- Alarms or reminders to establish consistent routines.
- What are the best types of clocks for dementia patients?
The best clocks for dementia patients include:
- Day Clocks: Clearly display the time of day (e.g., morning, afternoon, evening).
- Digital Calendar Clocks: Show the full date, day, and time in large text.
- Talking Clocks: Announce the time audibly for those with vision impairments.
- Reminder Clocks: Include alarms for medication or daily tasks.
Choose a clock based on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
- Where can I buy dementia-friendly clocks?
Dementia-friendly clocks can be purchased from:
- Specialist retailers like Unforgettable.org or Alzheimer’s Society’s online shop.
- High street stores such as Argos or John Lewis.
- Online marketplaces like Amazon UK.
- Local mobility or care equipment shops.
Always check reviews and product descriptions to ensure the clock meets your loved one’s needs.