It’s estimated that more than 700,000 people in the UK are currently providing unpaid care for someone with dementia [1]
Amazon Devices has teamed up with UK Charity Dementia Carers Count to develop an Alexa guide for carers
TV’s Ruth Langsford brings personal experience to the campaign, sharing how she uses Alexa to support her when caring for her mother
London – 7 August 2025: Amazon has collaborated with UK Charity,Dementia Carers Count to help unpaid carers get the most out of Alexa-enabled devices. Together, they have developed a comprehensive free visual guide that highlights key Alexa features, such as Drop In and advanced scheduling tools, to help carers manage daily routines and feel more supported in their role.
Research by Dementia Carers Count found that 71% of unpaid carers lack adequate support, with over a third (36%) describing their role as a 24/7 responsibility. [2] Alexa can lend a small but meaningful hand through reminders, video check-ins, or routine management tools when resources are limited. This is especially relevant during summer, when many carers report feeling additional strain as their support networks take holidays.
Championing the campaign is TV presenter Ruth Langsford, who cares for her mother with dementia. As a long-time advocate for carers, Ruth has teamed up with Amazon to demonstrate how she incorporates Alexa into her caregiving routine, using the technology to ease her day-to-day responsibilities.
“I know firsthand how being a carer is a relentless responsibility – you’re constantly juggling responsibilities and at times it can be overwhelming,” saidRuth 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.”
Amazon collaborated with Dementia Carers Count to develop the Alexa guide based on insights from focus groups with unpaid carers and expert panels including dementia nursing specialists, clinical psychologists, and counsellors. The guide, which features 15 useful Alexa functionalities, is now available on the Dementia Carers Count website. Key features highlighted include:
- Reminders: Alexa reminders can be used as helpful audio or visual nudges throughout the day. Users can set reminders for appointments, meals, hydration, or daily routines.
- Photo Frame: Amazon Echo Show users can use Amazon Photos to turn their device home screen into a digital photo frame with Alexa.
- Drop In Communication: Alexa’s “Drop In” feature works like an intercom to allow instant, two-way conversations between compatible Alexa-enabled devices within the home or with designated contacts who have granted permission.
- Shopping Lists: Shopping lists can be created by voice and ticked off in the Alexa mobile app, helping carers stay on top of household tasks.
Frances Lawrence, CEO, Dementia Carers Count said: “Nearly one million UK residents live with dementia, and studies show one in two Britons will either provide or need dementia care in their lifetime.[3] 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