People living with dementia are helping to shape the future of technologies designed to support independent living through a UK-wide research network co-led by the University of Strathclyde.
The CONSOLIDATE network has brought together people living with dementia, carers, researchers, healthcare professionals and third-sector organisations to identify the priorities that should guide the next generation of assistive technologies.
New technologies
Their recommendations will help inform future research and innovation, ensuring that new technologies reflect the experiences, needs and aspirations of the people who will use them.
Around one million people in the UK are living with dementia, with that number expected to rise significantly over the coming decades. While many people wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, technology has an important role to play in helping people maintain their independence, confidence and quality of life.
The network reinforced that accessible, affordable and straightforward technology should be developed with people living with dementia rather than simply for them.
Meaningful difference
Professor Mario Parra Rodriguez, Head of the Department of Psychological Sciences and Health at the University of Strathclyde and the University's lead for CONSOLIDATE, said: "People living with dementia are the experts in their own experience, and their knowledge is essential if we are to develop technologies that genuinely improve daily life.
By putting their priorities at the heart of research, we can create solutions that are more personalised, more adaptable and more likely to make a meaningful difference to people's independence and wellbeing.
The initiative is led by the University of Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt University and Age Scotland, with partners including Alzheimer Scotland, Meeting Centres Scotland, Carers Scotland, The Community Renewal Trust and NHS Boards across Scotland. The network is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), in partnership with the Alzheimer's Society.
The network will continue to support collaborative research across academia, healthcare, industry and the voluntary sector, creating opportunities to develop and test innovative technologies that respond to the changing needs of people living with dementia and their families.