Over the past year, people living with dementia in Torfaen have been helping to develop an app that could improve the lives of others and their carers. The technology aims to support people with the early stages of dementia by helping them to live at home independently for longer.

The project has been a partnership approach made possible by becoming a semi-finalist of the prestigious Longitude Prize for Dementia. This brought together Age Connects Torfaen and Cardiff Metropolitan University to create the app, MemoryConnect. On the 24th May 2024, MemoryConnect was showcased to a room full of people including Heléna Herklots, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Torfaen MS Lynne Neagle, and Cllr David Daniels, cabinet member for adult services and housing, at the Widdershins Centre.

Ms. Herklots emphasized the vital role of technology during Covid-19 as people sought ways to stay connected despite physical separation. She highlighted the importance of involving those affected in the development process, echoing the principle, "Nothing about us, without us." Herklots praised the innovative work on MemoryConnect, expressing her amazement at the app's capabilities.

MemoryConnect has already been shortlisted for the Welsh Tech Awards, reflecting its significant potential and the positive impact it could have on the dementia community. The project team is preparing to present their findings to a panel from the Longitude Prize for Dementia. Success in this final round could secure additional funding, allowing for further development and wider distribution of the app.

The development of MemoryConnect involved extensive collaboration with individuals living with dementia and their carers. This participatory approach ensured the app's features were tailored to the real needs and challenges faced by its users. Key functionalities of the app include memory aids, medication reminders, and tools for daily routine management, all designed to enhance independence and quality of life.

Age Connects Torfaen and Cardiff Metropolitan University have been instrumental in driving this initiative forward. Their combined expertise in gerontology, technology, and community support has been crucial in developing an app that is both user-friendly and effective. The project also benefited from feedback and suggestions from healthcare professionals, ensuring that the app integrates seamlessly with existing care practices. As the project moves into its next phase, there is a strong sense of anticipation and hope among the team and the wider community. MemoryConnect represents a significant step forward in the use of technology to support people with dementia, offering a practical solution to help them remain independent for longer.

The potential impact of MemoryConnect extends beyond Torfaen, with the possibility of it being adopted more widely across Wales and even internationally. As awareness of the app grows, it could become a model for similar initiatives aimed at leveraging technology to support dementia care. The development of MemoryConnect exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges faced by people with dementia and their carers. By prioritizing the voices and experiences of those directly affected, the project has created a tool that promises to make a meaningful difference in their lives. The journey of MemoryConnect is a testament to the importance of empathy, technology, and community in shaping the future of dementia care.

To find out more get in touch with Age Connects Torfaen.