Title: Integrating the technological and social model of later life in the maintenance and adaptation of private housing: a feasibility study of knowledge management information and visualisation systems

Poster: Visualising Home

Many people want to remain in their own homes despite quite disabling conditions. Often to achieve this their homes have to be altered, bathrooms enlarged, and ramps, rails and other equipment, such as stairlifts, installed. The experience of alteration work can be very traumatic and can lead to irredeemable changes to the “home”. In anticipation of much distress many older people decline the opportunity to improve their living conditions. This study will consider the use of modern information and visualisation technologies for improving the design and implementation of adaptations. Older people will be able to obtain a realistic view of a range of intended alterations and the impact on their homes, discuss these with designers and occupational therapists, and make certain that their priorities and preferences are fully understood.

Philip Astley, South Bank University
12 months, £30,500