Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for reminding users with declining cognitive abilities that remote assistance from a caregiver is available and for providing a simplified way of requesting the assistance. The assistance may be provided through a videoconference on a patient assistance apparatus, which may comprise a screen, speaker, and microphone. The apparatus may remind the user when the user is present at or near the apparatus, which may be detected through a motion or proximity sensor. When the user is near, the apparatus may output an assistance inquiry message which proactively asks whether the user needs assistance. The apparatus may then receive a verbal or other form of inputted response. Based on the user's response, the apparatus may initiate a videoconference with the remote caregiver. The apparatus may also output a message inquiring whether the user is present, which may allow a remote caregiver to initiate a videoconference.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for reminding users with declining cognitive abilities that remote assistance from a caregiver is available and for providing a simplified way of requesting the assistance. The assistance may be provided through a videoconference on a patient assistance apparatus, which may comprise a screen, speaker, and microphone. The apparatus may remind the user when the user is present at or near the apparatus, which may be detected through a motion or proximity sensor. When the user is near, the apparatus may output an assistance inquiry message which proactively asks whether the user needs assistance. The apparatus may then receive a verbal or other form of inputted response. Based on the user's response, the apparatus may initiate a videoconference with the remote caregiver. The apparatus may also output a message inquiring whether the user is present, which may allow a remote caregiver to initiate a videoconference.

Abstract: A medication dispenser comprises slots that may be sized to accommodate medication containers of various sizes. Each slot has an associated barcode reader. A user inserts the pharmacy-provided pill or medication container into one slot. The barcode on the container is read. From the barcode the medication in the container is identified. The device contains a simple user interface that allows the user to enter the dosing frequency prescribed, how many pills or cc's are in the container, how many refills and a starting time. The dispenser alerts users to possible drug interactions with medications in other slots as well as alerts them to dosing times and other pertinent information.