The explosion in use of internet technology means that a large community of users can be connected and supported via internet based applications and services.
The increasing cost of care for patients in care homes drives policy makers and individuals to prefer a care model that allows patients to live independently at home for as long as possible. Adopting an independent living solution relies on the ability to tap into upcoming technologies and smart devices. The cost of touch screen based PCs, mobile devices and web cameras has dramatically fallen in recent years and lends itself to assisting in home care.
The system is developed using a prototype approach with real patients by filtering the functionality to only what works and is found useful. It can be configured to support the progressive state of dementia for both mild and moderate memory loss.
Ideally Genie should be introduced at the early stages of the disease so that both carer and patient can familiarise themselves with the system. The potential for learning is reduced as the condition progresses and thus the system’s basic automated mode is designed so no prior experience of usage in needed. In a sense, each usage could be regarded as the first time the person interacts with the system. What follows is that the solution can be configurable to match the person’s ability and disease progression.
Record events and set daily schedules, reminders & news
Communication can be in a textual form or using speech with pre-configured characters (avatars) or even family members (e.g. granddaughter)
Extensive options for patients requesting help using text SMS messages, placing calls to important people using a single button and asking for advice on repeating problems
Inbuilt functionality for carer organisations to record visits log
Constant connection between patient and carer
Combination of live video streaming and motion detection allows for patient activity monitoring around the house
GPS watch communicates with GENIE app to monitor patient location when outside the home
Notifications and alerts on patient activity and whereabouts sent to designated contacts of carer’s choosing
Define patient “safe-zones”
Self discovery and scheduled activities
Memory building puzzles and life stories
Upload personal material such as photos and videos
