Warm Technology Challenge

Dementia is one of the greatest challenges facing our society as the incidence of age-related diseases increases worldwide. Social views on dementia have changed dramatically from addressing people with dementia about their symptoms to addressing people with unique life experiences. The focus is shifting to living well with dementia and how non-pharmacological interventions such as technology can play an important role in supporting this. However, there are still many challenges ahead. Technology is often conceived without full consideration of its intended user group, or a thorough understanding of the context in which it must operate. Moreover, technology is often seen as impersonal, complicated and cold. The TU/e ​​Center of Expertise on Dementia & Technology (ECDT) has developed a new approach to technology design that we call “Warm Technology” and which we apply in the field of dementia.

Warm Technology is inclusive, person-centred and focused on the capabilities and ambitions of people with dementia and their caregivers, rather than on compensating for the loss of motor functions or cognitive skills. With Warm Technology we want to contribute to the well-being of every person by respecting dignity, supporting freedom of choice and offering comfort and safety.

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In this student design competition we challenge students to come up with innovative and groundbreaking examples of warm technology that can have a meaningful impact on the lives of people with dementia and their loved ones. In particular, we are looking for submissions that address the ethical challenges of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), socially assistive robots (SARs) or virtual reality (VR) and expand the understanding of warm technology for people with dementia.

Submissions can be in the form of mock-ups, functional prototypes, videos, future ideas, conceptual visions, etc.

The entries will be judged on:
1) impact on the quality of life of people with dementia and their social environment;
2) relevance to the concept of warm technology by ensuring inclusion, dignity and empowerment;
3) new and creative application of emerging technologies such as AI, VR or SARs.

Selected entries will be coached during the challenge by experts from industry, academia and healthcare practice. The selected entries will also receive technical support in creating prototypes to transform their idea into viable demonstrators or products. During the final exhibition and grand finale, three winners will be selected by a jury and cash prizes will be awarded in addition to unique networking opportunities facilitated by Alzheimer Nederland.