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New dementia research funding to focus on using technology to support independent living

At Alzheimer’s Society, we're now a proud partner in a £6 million initiative funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to develop technologies that help people with dementia stay independent at home for longer. 

Dementia is a growing healthcare challenge, there are around a million people in the UK with dementia, and this is expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040. 

One of our recent surveys found that 85% of people diagnosed with dementia would prefer to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.  

To support this, four newly established research networks will develop technologies to help people manage symptoms, maintain social connections, and live independently. 

The networks are being announced at the World Dementia Council Summit which is championing the role of innovation to deliver change through health systems. 

The four networks driving dementia innovation

• BRIDGES for dementia network (University of Sheffield): This network will be developing adaptive tools for speech, memory, and social interaction, including word-finding aids and music engagement platforms.
• CONSOLIDATE network (Heriot-Watt University): This network will explore how technology can sustain cognitive, physical, and social capacities, ensuring solutions are accessible and practical.
• TEDI network plus (Northumbria University): This network will set up community technology hubs in the North East and North Cumbria to provide advice, device trials, and local service connections.
• ZeDTech network (Imperial College London): This network will create sustainable, scalable, and low-cost technology solutions, integrating AI to support mobility, health monitoring, and carer assistance. 

These research networks will collaborate with the NHS, local authorities, charities and the technology sector to make sure the innovations align with healthcare and social care frameworks. 

Professor Fiona Carragher, Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, emphasised the importance of these efforts: 

“One in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime. Research will beat dementia and innovative networks like these will play an important part in helping people living with dementia today, and in the future, live independently for longer.   

As well as exploring ways to make daily life easier, and helping people with dementia feel more connected, they have the potential to ease pressure on the NHS. 

“This could improve care for everyone as more people with dementia will be able to remain independent and cared for in the community for longer.

“As technology develops at pace, it’s critical we harness it, using AI, digital health and community support to create simple, effective solutions. We’re excited to see what the future holds.”