New digital tools to support people with dementia
New digital tools to support people with dementia
27 August 2024
We funded Julian Jeyasingh-Jacob’s research fellowship at Imperial College London’s UK Dementia Research Institute, measuring the daily activities of people living with dementia using in-home sensor technology.
The team uses machine learning algorithms to translate data into insights which identify patients who need more support carrying out day-to-day activities at home.
This technology will mean occupational therapists can provide more personalised interventions to prevent older adults’ health from deteriorating when they leave hospital.
Mr Jeyasingh-Jacob said: “My research has the potential to positively impact the quality of care of people living with neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
“Home sensor technology can help provide better support for people with dementia and improve Occupational Therapists’ ability to plan, monitor and deliver care.”
“This study could also have broader implications by promoting ageing in place and minimising the need for institutionalisation, with the potential to alleviate the strain on the health and care system.”
“Home sensor technology can help provide better support for people with dementia and improve Occupational Therapists’ ability to plan, monitor and deliver care.”
Julian Jeyasingh-Jacob
The research findings will help shape policy to integrate in-home sensors into care frameworks. Using sensor technology, policymakers and practitioners will be able to develop tailored support for older adults and people living with neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
Through the fellowship, Mr Jeyasingh-Jacob became a member of the National Research and Development Board of the Royal College of Occupational Therapy.
As one of the few occupational therapists undertaking research in this field, he’s been able to help shape national policy and strategy on the future of technology-enabled care and hopes to complete a PhD on the use of smart technology to support people at home.
If you’re a member of staff at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust with a passion for research, you may be eligible to apply for our Research Fellowships programme. Applications open in October for next year’s programme. You can find out more here.
