Using Digital Home Devices to Improve Health and Wellbeing in Stoke-on-Trent Patients

As assistive technology, such as Siri, Alexa and Bixby, grows in popularity, perhaps it isn’t so surprising that many people are now considering how this technology can be used for other needs, more specifically, to assist those with medical conditions and considerations. As part of Wavemaker’s collaboration with the NHS, we’ve been installing home devices in numerous residences around the city to help certain patients in Stoke-on-Trent. The trial is to see whether assistive technologies can help those with chronic and long-term medical conditions better manage their health whilst gaining benefits such as improved independence and easier access to support.

All clients have the chance to choose from a range of devices including Amazon Echo Shows, Echo Dots and Echo Spots, with guidance from participating care organisations, before we visit them to install the device and give them training and advice on how to use it. Participants then use their chosen device for a set period of time to see whether its numerous features can help with aspects of living with a long-term condition- from reminders to take medication to helping to improve patient’s social isolation by making long-distance communication easier.

All of the participants have been referred via professional care organisations who believe that they may benefit from the digital support of the devices.

Throughout the trial, Wavemaker will be on hand to answer any questions that clients may have about their devices and to offer any additional support should they need it. Already, patients tell us that they are looking forward to trying the devices and seeing if they make a difference.

Once the trial is complete, the NHS will be able to assess how patients benefited from these devices and whether the use of home devices can support an individual’s health plan and treatment.

For now, we hope that the opportunity arises to promote the potential benefits of home devices to other health and wellbeing services and help improve digital inclusion and digital health across Stoke-on-Trent and beyond.