Annual Parliamentary report on R&D in Assistive Technology published

An in-depth review of research projects which are developing innovative new aids and equipment for older and disabled people has just been published. The Parliamentary report on R&D in assistive technology (AT) has been prepared for the Department of Health by the Foundation for Assistive Technology (FAST) and highlights work going on throughout the UK during the previous year.

The report has a comprehensive listing of over 200 publicly-funded research projects which have started, finished or are being carried out between April 2010 and March 2011. This unique, free resource includes a brief summary of the aim of each project, the research teams taking part and funding sources, and links to further information on the FAST website, (www.fastuk.org), including participant contact details and project progress.

Around 30 projects designed to develop products and services that will improve the lives of older and disabled people are described in greater detail as examples of the potential for AT to transform people's lives. These include Bristol University's work exploring how people with disabilities which severely limit their mobility and hand function can control a PC using tongue movements. Other projects featured range from special shoes designed to minimise falls in older people to new accessible bathroom designs, and a robot which provides daily reminders to support older people to live independently.

The report also sets out the key policies which have impacted on the design and delivery of services and products to support older and disabled people. These include the move towards the provision of local re-enablement and rehabilitation; the Whole Systems Demonstrator trial; new funding streams from the Technology Strategy Board; changes in the commissioning of services for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and prosthetics; and developments in wheelchair services. In view of the government's increased focus on dementia research there is an in-depth analysis of the issues around AT developments in this area, highlighting the drive to involve people with dementia fully in the design process so as to ensure products meet their needs.

This comprehensive resource on AT research and development will be of interest to academic researchers, commissioners, AT healthcare professionals and members of the public. The information it contains is also available on the FAST website, along with full details of R&D in AT funded by non-government organisations, plus news about events and service improvement activity. All of this content is freely available and regularly updated.

More details from the FAST website HERE