Understanding transport and technology issues for people living with dementia

Technology is creating massive change to transport. There will be a move away from private cars and public transportation to more flexible technology-based options including driverless cars and buses. This may be an important opportunity for supporting quality of life and independence for people living with dementia and their care partners. But, it may create isolation and safety risks if people are not able to use these options. If these future technologies can be developed considering the needs and preferences of people living with dementia and those who care for them, they are more likely to be usable, safe and helpful.

It is important to understand what people living with dementia, their care partners, and those involved in relevant government and industry areas actually need from emerging transport options. The study will gather current and future technology information and explain it. It will gather and prioritise areas needing attention from the perspective of people living with dementia and others involved in technology and transport innovations. It begins an approach that draws together needs and concerns at this key time of change that will help to develop a transport system that is usable by all people. The first stage of the study is gathering a range of different perspectives. This is being done remotely and flexibly.

The first stage of research will involve flexible contactless research options (zoom, telephone, email, mail or any combination). At the moment, we are seeking:

• People living with mild dementia who are interested in talking about transportation issues
• Care partners of someone living with dementia
• Other stakeholders with an interest in transportation (transport providers, health professionals, local council, technology developers)

People can be involved in all or any of a range of research activities including: flexible interviews, story completions, map and a chat.