An International Scan: Technology for People with Dementia

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An International Scan Technology for People with
Dementia

• Andrew Sixsmith

ICDR Conference on Technology for Improving
Cognitive Performance, Washington DC, June 29-30,
2006
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Approaches to RD

• Early research-Technology driven
• Current research-Needs driven
• Future directions-Theory driven

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Limitations of RD

• Insufficient RD relating to people with dementia
• Needs problems
• Inadequate attention to contextual factors-
  cognition in context
• Lack of understanding of the experience of
  dementia
• Need to focus on enhancing quality of life

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Ecological model of quality of life
Being
Doing
Meaning
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Projects on older people
SERVICES
CareKeys
BT CiC project
Quality of life of older people
TECHNOLOGY
INDEPENDENT
ENVIRONMENT
EnableAge
POLICY
eInclusion
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The INDEPENDENT project

• Music player
• A window on the world
• An activity sequencing device
• Conversation prompter
• Follow-up project (QUEST) 2006-2010

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Music Player

• Conventional players too complex
• Need simple device
• Easy to use
• Improve access to music

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Limitations of original concept

• Problem is much more than usability of the
  device- ideation, choice, recognition
• Need to consider contextual factors- physical
  environment, social rules, etc.
• The music experience is multifaceted- much more
  than just playing music

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User-driven/Multidisciplinary RD

• Understanding the area
• Identifying opportunities
• Exploring solutions
• Prioritising
• Iterative development
• Evaluation

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Thank you

• Contact
• Andrew Sixsmith sixsmith_at_liv.ac.uk
• Website
• http//www.independent-eu.org/