North East scientists invent hi-tech gadgets to help elderly

Apr 29 2009 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

“The involvement of real people and the commitment to having people talk to us about what we should be developing is very important. This isn’t the usual university egg heads working in isolation.”

Dr Olivier said the idea of the kitchen was initially inspired by the plight of dementia sufferers. He said: “The idea is that the technology is embedded in the kitchen – it looks like your normal kitchen. We were motivated by people with dementia having trouble making food and drinks.

“When they get lost half way through making something, which is typical, the technology will prompt them.

“The prompt is just projected up a wall.”

Another possibility being developed is a special brooch which, simply by touching it, allows the user to request a carer. A signal is sent to a corresponding brooch worn by the carer that then vibrates, alerting them that their help is needed. The jewellery might could also be worn by a family member.”

Professor Paul Watson, leading the research at Newcastle University, said: “Our aim is to generate a pipeline of high-quality ideas that can make a real difference to people's lives, and then to start commercialising them as the hub's work nears its conclusion.

“As part of the hub, we’ve set up a team of software and hardware developers, so we'll be able to produce prototypes that are as close to the envisaged eventual products as possible.

“That means we could see life-transforming solutions reach the market within three to five years.”

Science and innovation minister Lord Drayson said: “New technologies can transform our quality of life. The unique thing about the new hubs in Aberdeen, Newcastle and Nottingham is the focus on designing digital technology that includes people from all walks of life.”