A groundbreaking research project by University of Strathclyde, CONSOLIDATE, is set to explore how innovative technology can enhance the independence and quality of life for people living with dementia.

By developing personalised solutions that support social, mental, and physical well-being, the project aims to empower individuals to live independently for longer.

Previous research suggests that dementia progression can be slowed by promoting cognitive skills, self-care activities and social engagement. Technology could play a vital role in this but only if it is designed with the real needs of people living with dementia, and their families, in mind. 

Dementia is progressive and people at different stages have different needs for what would enable them to live independently. 

Around one million people in the UK are living with dementia and this number is expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. According to a survey by the Alzheimer’s Society, 85% of people said they would prefer to stay at home for as long as possible after a dementia diagnosis. However, for many, this can be a challenge without the right support. 

The University of Strathclyde is co-leading the study, along with Heriot-Watt University and Age Scotland. Other partners in the research network include Alzheimer Scotland, Meeting Centres Scotland, Carers Scotland, The Community Renewal Trust and NHS Boards across the country. 

Professor Mario Parra Rodriguez, Head of Strathclyde’s Department of Psychological Sciences and Health, and the University’s lead in CONSOLIDATE, said: “By equipping emerging technologies with knowledge contributed by relevant disciplines, and mapping such developments to the needs and preferences of those who will benefit from them, we can achieve unprecedented levels of personalised care. 

“CONSOLIDATE moves away from the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach as it aims to support the development of new technologies that can adapt to the changing needs of diverse populations living with dementia.” 

Anna Clements, Head of Dementia at Age Scotland, said: “Working with people who have lived experience of dementia is essential to everything we do. Any new technology must be designed with them, not just for them. 

“For example, sensor technology can help make living spaces safer and more secure, but people living with dementia want more than to simply be monitored. They want technology that supports their independence, helps them stay engaged and allows them to live independently for as long as possible. 

Adapting to needs

“Focusing only on safety, while important, doesn’t help people retain their abilities or stay as active as they’d like. For those in the early stages of dementia, we want to explore how technology can support their independence now while also adapting to their future needs.” 

Professor Alan Gow of Heriot-Watt University, a partner in the project, said: “Technology has immense potential to support people living with dementia, from virtual assistants promoting social, mental, and physical engagement, smart sensors to monitor activity, and even robots that aid with daily tasks – the tools exist.”

The CONSOLIDATE network is funded by UKRI’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society.