Case Study - Assistive Technology for Independent Living
Sector: Information Technology
Newcastle University is tackling the challenge of helping the UK’s rising number of elderly people to live in their own homes for longer. The University has secured £2 million in funding for the SALT (Sustainable Assistive Technologies and Services) project, which is running until 2014.
Most people affected by ageing would prefer to stay in their own home surroundings. But often simple tasks like preparing food or taking a bath present a major problem. The SALT project will look at affordable solutions that people want to use, with the help of new digital technologies.
Potential
One of the project’s funders is the Technology Strategy Board. Their Chief Executive, Iain Gray, comments: “While assisted living technologies are becoming increasingly available and affordable, their adoption is far from extensive.”
Professor Feng Li is leading the SALT project and is excited about the opportunity to show the potential impact of assisted living technology. He says: “There’s a real chance that what we do over the next few years will improve the well being and quality of life of older people and those caring for them.”
Collaboration
Researchers from all three Faculties at Newcastle University will work in collaboration with businesses and third sector organisations. Partners include RTC North Ltd, Critical Data Ltd, Cybermoor Services Ltd, Docobo Ltd, Age Concern, Years Ahead, ADL Smartcare Ltd, Manus Neurodynamica, Limbs Alive Ltd, and Intrahealth Ltd.
Professor Feng Li comments: “We have something very special here in the North East, with a broad range of expertise.” He adds: “I hope that this project will bring these people together in a coherent manner to find sustainable ways forward.”
Further information
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