SENSE – Using technology to support older adults with dual sensory impairment

Building on two existing research projects involving older people with dual sensory impairment (DSI), Sense has commissioned this study to enhance understanding of the role of telecare and other technologies in supporting older people with DSI to live independently in their own homes. The study will therefore focus on the use, applicability, potential and value of these technologies for people with DSI as a specific client group.

The research focuses on five research questions:

1. What telecare equipment (or other assistive and /or mainstream technologies) exists which older people with DSI could use to support them to remain in their own homes and retain their independence?
2. Which agencies and providers offer, arrange and / or monitor this support, and is there scope for extending or enhancing this type of provision, by widening access to it or extending the available range of products and services?
3. What constraints do people with DSI experience in their everyday lives, and how could telecare and associated technologies help them to overcome these and achieve their own aspirations and engage in activities of their own choice?
4. What barriers to the use of telecare and/or other technologies by older people with DSI exist, how could these be addressed, and what factors or circumstances would facilitate their more effective use?
5. What challenges do older people with DSI face in leading independent lives and engaging in activities of their own choice, and how might telecare contribute to supporting them or the people / services assisting them, particularly in the context of any other health conditions or needs they may have?

Method

The project uses Everyday Life Analysis-method to analyse the role of technology in the everyday lives of older people with dual sensory impairment. The method was developed for the AKTIVE project.