On the 12th July, the University hosted a Carers Group and presented two new projects, In Touch and If Only. In Touch, developed by Dr. Nigel Harris from BIME, is an easy to use video communication system developed specifically for elderly users. This is a touch screen interface which will help users to stay connected friends and family. Carers were asked to comment on design aspects, such as whether they would prefer the system to be integrated with their television set or to remain as a separate screen.
If Only, a smartphone app, part of a KTA award to Professor Chris Eccleston, was presented by Lisa Austin. If Only encourages people to upload videos and photographs of everyday problems encountered by elderly and disabled people, for example a person who is only able to use one hand may find it difficult to operate a standard tin opener. These videos and images will then be viewed by designers who will endeavour to create innovative new products to tackle these issues.
Lisa Austin, Bath R&D Manager explains that ‘These groups bring us in contact with the public, which gives our local researchers encouragement for our ideas to make things better. By sharing thoughts and hearing the views and experiences of the group members, researchers are able to develop more relevant research into problems faced by carers and create innovative design solutions'.
If you are a Carer, Stroke Survivor or Chronic Pain Patient and would like more information, please email Inclusive Design Research Assistant Sarah Rook at S.V.Rook@Bath.ac.uk or phone 01225 383897 or visit: http://www.bath.ac.uk/health/researchsupport/brd/publicpatientinvolvement.html
