University of Brighton researchers lead East Sussex Living Lab to boost wellbeing of older adults

New Living Lab project designed to explore how technology can enhance the well-being of older residents in East Sussex.

Delivered in partnership with East Sussex County Council’s Adult Social Care and Health service and NHS Sussex Our Care Connected program, this one-year pilot will see University of Brighton researchers evaluate the impact of digital technology on participants’ physical, mental, and social wellbeing.

Dr Theo Fotis, Lead Researcher from the School of Sport and Health Sciences said: “The Living Lab concept allows us to work with all the relevant stakeholders to cocreate and conduct the testing of these technologies in a real-world setting, gathering valuable insights from the residents themselves.”

Putting the people who will use and benefit from the technology at the centre of the project, the Living Lab integrates new research and innovative processes into real life communities and settings.

The project, launched earlier this month at a sheltered housing facility in Peacehaven, offers residents a variety of engaging technologies:

• Interactive magic table: This table utilises light projections for residents to enjoy physical, social, and cognitive activities, fostering interaction and healthy competition.
• Virtual reality headsets: Residents can embark on virtual day trips and experiences, promoting a sense of adventure and combating isolation.
• Optional in-home technology: Residents can choose to have heat sensor fall monitors installed for added safety or utilise sports smartwatches to track their health vitals.

The project extends its impact by potentially easing the burden on carers. Interactive technologies can act as conversation starters, encouraging social interaction between residents and caregivers.

Mark Stainton, Director of Adult Social Care and Health at East Sussex County Council, said: “We are delighted to launch this innovative Living Lab project, and hope our residents enjoy experimenting with the technology on offer.

“The feedback gathered from the pilot scheme will enable us and our partners at the University of Brighton and NHS Sussex to learn how internet-connected devices could help improve the health of older people living locally as well as see first-hand the positive impact this technology can have on their quality of life.”

The research will analyse the effectiveness of these technologies in improving residents’ well-being. The findings will inform future commissioning of Health and Social Care in East Sussex, ultimately shaping a more technologically integrated care system.