Apps

"Fast Facts is the official mobile version of the Fast Facts database... and is designed to be useful in a clinical setting. Convenience and customization are key--browse the Facts Facts database by search, chronology, or subject; share and bookmark articles that are particularly useful; adjust the text size, background, and font color." App and database maintained by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin. 

Bottom Line: An easy-to-use information portal specific to serious illness and palliative care.

(excerpt from Google Play Store)

VitalTalk Tips provides clinicians with the tools to develop stronger communication skills for patients with serious illness and offers a variety of methods to engage in content. "VitalTalk is non-profit, built on research, and aimed at social change. We want to make it possible for every patient with serious illness to talk to a clinician who has the skills needed to enable that patient to make decisions that match their values."

Bottom Line: Conversations about serious illness can be tough; VitalTalk Tips provides you the tools for making them easier. 

(excerpt from VitalTalk Tips App website)

Developed by the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center, this app offers a variety of resources in multiple languages, including "wellness meditations for people suffering from challenging health conditions," and science-backed insights into the benefits of meditation and mindfulness.

Bottom Line: While the app has fewer meditations than other comparable options, it is easy to use, recommended by practicing clinicians, and content is evidence based. 

• Meditation can provide relief from the stress and symptoms of serious illness. 

(excerpts from UCLA Mindful App website)

Healthy Minds Program "uses neuroscience, contemplative traditions, and skill-based learning methods to help you develop the skills for a healthy mind." Content is built on four key ideas (Awareness, Connection, Insight, and Purpose) and training the mind through meditation "to be more focused, calm, and resilient."

Bottom Line: Tools for personal development and mental wellness backed by decades of neuroscience research. 

• Meditation can provide relief from the stress and symptoms of serious illness. 

(excerpt from HealthyMindsInnovations.org)

Speech Assistant AAC is a text-to-speech communication app for those with speech impairments (e.g., aphasia). Key features includes multiple language availability, usability during phone calls, easy customization, option for photos/symbols, and no internet connection required.​ Basic version is sufficient for everyday conversation; full version unlocks additional customization features. User manual available online at ASoft.nl.

Bottom Line: Addresses speech impairments and empowers patients to communicate with others. 

• Communication and speech can be difficult for some clients with serious illness.

Bearable is a streamlined, user-friendly symptom tracking and health journaling app that tracks a variety of symptoms related to chronic conditions and serious illness, including mental health, pain, mood, brain fog, and fatigue. Track medications, sync data across apps, and see trends and correlations in one's health and habits. 

Bottom Line: Not free (unfortunately), but is one of the easiest to use and most comprehensive symptom tracking apps out there.