Talking Clocks for Low Vision and Dementia

Why a clock matters

• For low vision. Reading time is the commonest task people with sight loss lose, and it is a basic independence skill. A talking or tactile clock restores it; see low vision home safety.
• For dementia. Orientation to time supports a sense of security and routine. A clear, plain clock showing day, date and part of day can reduce anxiety and night-time confusion, though it does not treat memory loss; see orientation aids for memory loss and dementia daily routines.
• For routine. Meals, medicines and appointments are tied to time; see medicine reminders for a forgetful parent.
• For sleep. Knowing it is night helps people stay in bed; see sleep problems in older adults.

Types of clock

### Talking clock

A clock that announces the time aloud, either when a button is pressed or at set intervals. Some also announce the date and day, and some have an alarm and a temperature reading. Useful for people with severely reduced vision or blindness. Choose a clear, natural voice, a volume control and a large button.

### Large-display digital clock

A clock with big numerals, often 5 to 10 cm tall, with high contrast, such as white or yellow numbers on black. Many display the day of the week and the date, and the time of day, such as "Monday morning". Valuable for people with low vision or dementia.

### Day and date clock (calendar clock)

Displays the day in full words, the date and the time, in large print. Often called a dementia clock or orientation clock. Some show only "Morning", "Afternoon", "Evening" or "Night" so that a person is not confused by numbers. Choose a non-ambiguous display and avoid cluttered ones.

### Large analogue clock

A big-faced, clear analogue clock with bold numbers and hands. Some people with dementia read analogue clocks less well than digital ones, but others prefer them. Choose according to the person's habits.

### Tactile or braille watches and clocks

Clocks with raised markers and hands that can be felt, for those who are blind.

### Talking watches and wristwatches

Wearable options for people who like to carry a clock; a large-face watch or a talking watch.

### Alarm clocks with strong features

Loud or vibrating alarms, bright lights or bed shakers, for people with hearing loss; see hearing loss: a home and family guide.

### Reminder clocks

Clocks that show messages or voice reminders for medicines and appointments, programmed by a carer. Some have a screen with scheduled reminders. Simple versions are best.

### Smart speakers and phones

Voice assistants can announce the time, date and reminders. Useful for some people with vision problems; they require setup and understanding; see phone accessibility features for seniors.

Choosing a clock

For low vision:

• Large, high-contrast display (white or yellow on black, or black on white), with no glare.
• A talking function, with volume and speed adjustment.
• A large, easy-to-find button.
• Matt screen, not glossy.
• A bright reading light nearby; see lighting for older eyes.

For dementia:

• A very simple display: the day of the week, the date and the time of day, in large clear print.
• A clear distinction between morning and night, perhaps with a sun and moon.
• No confusing buttons, switches or alarms.
• Tamper-resistant: easy for the carer to set, hard for the person to alter.
• A stable, non-slip base.
• A power supply that is reliable, such as a mains adapter with battery back-up.
• A familiar style, if possible.

General:

• Battery back-up in case of power cuts.
• Automatic time and date adjustments.
• Easy to read from the usual seat.
• Quality that suits the daily routine.

Where to place it

• At eye level from the chair or bed where your parent spends most time, within easy view, not in a corner.
• Not facing a bright window, where glare makes it hard to read.
• One main clock, not many, which can show different times and cause confusion.
• A clock in the bedroom showing night or day, with a soft light at night.
• Another in the kitchen or living room, where routines happen.
• Keep it clean and dust-free, with clean glass or screen.
• Check it each week that it shows the right time and date, especially after power cuts or battery changes.

Using clocks in a calm routine

A clock is only one tool. Used well, it fits into a daily structure.

• Say the day and time aloud during the day: "It is Tuesday morning, time for breakfast."
• Link events to the clock: "When the clock says 8, it is medicine time."
• Use a whiteboard or a large calendar to show appointments, visitors and activities; see orientation aids for memory loss.
• Keep a consistent daily routine for meals, medicines, walks and sleep.
• Use light and darkness to signal day and night, with curtains open in the day and a dark, quiet room at night.
• Address night confusion calmly: "It is still night. It is 3 am. Let us go back to bed." Avoid arguing. If your parent is distressed, ask what they need; see sundowning.
• Avoid too many reminders that can confuse or irritate.
• Remove old or broken clocks that show wrong times.
• Keep the same clock in the same place.

For a person who lives alone

A talking clock or a smart speaker can help a person with low vision live independently. For people with memory problems who live alone, a clock is not enough: daily visits, calls, medicine support and safety devices are needed; see home safety for seniors living alone and door sensors. A large clock with day and date helps a parent far away to feel connected, and a daily phone call at the same time reinforces routine; see caring for parents from afar.

What clocks cannot do

• They cannot restore memory, or treat dementia or sight loss.
• They cannot stop wandering; see wandering and dementia safety.
• They cannot take the place of a carer.
• They may confuse some people if they are too complex or changed often.

Observe your parent's response. If a clock causes distress, try another or remove it.

Care and maintenance

Change batteries regularly, or use the mains adapter. Keep the clock dust-free and dry. Replace any clock that loses time. Check the volume and the voice for a talking clock. Keep the instructions accessible for carers.

When to ask a professional

An optometrist, ophthalmologist or low vision service can assess eyesight and recommend aids; see cataract and daily life. A doctor should assess new confusion, memory loss or sleep disturbance. An occupational therapist can recommend orientation aids and routines. Our care advisors can help choose clocks and plan routines.