A new cloud-based digital health technology project led by Trinity College Dublin is set to enable older people with chronic diseases to live independently in their own home.

ProACT will support home-based integrated care, linking in with care support networks and facilitating lifestyle changes.

The system links new and existing care applications, sensors and healthcare technology devices, providing a customised interface through tablets, smartphones and computers for patients, carers and healthcare workers.

The programme, which has been awarded €4.87 million under the European Union's (EU) Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation programme, is being led by the Trinity Centre for Practice and Healthcare Innovation (TCPHI) and will work with a consortium of research institutions, health service providers, small companies, EU networks and multinationals IBM and Philips.

Cognitive decline

The first phase will deal with care for diabetes, chronic heart disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and age-related cognitive decline.

TCD provost and president Dr Patrick Prendergast said tackling the challenges of ageing was a priority for Trinity researchers.

“ProACT is a prime example of how important this research is for the benefit of all in society,” he said. “It brings together clinical and health research, data solutions and ICT that will lead to the development of new technologies with the overall aim of improving older people’s lives.”

The programme, which is expected to take more than three years to complete, will take place across two trial sites in Ireland and Belgium.