Co-design of novel technologies for ageing
Event Date
3 December 2025
Time
12:30 - 13:30
Description
Join us for a dynamic session showcasing how co-design is transforming the creation of emerging technologies suporting people as they age. The session will include presentations from two speakers which together will highlight the impact of partnering with users when designing technology solutions.
Presentation 1 - Intergenerational Co-design Of Novel technologies In Coastal communities, Dr Rory Baxter, University of Plymouth
The EPSRC funded ICONIC (Intergenerational Co-design Of Novel technologies In Coastal communities) project explored how co-design of novel technologies could support digital inclusion in Cornwall and Devon. The project recruited 97 participants for intergenerational workshops that focused on the co-design of technologies that support access to environment, heritage, and community resources. The technologies included a social game, immersive heritage and underwater experiences, and a voice AI system accessed via a telephone call, providing access to online information to those without an internet connection. This talk will focus on insights from the co-design process and discuss participant perceptions of digital inclusion and how this was impacted by their participation.
Presenter Biography
Rory Baxter is an early career researcher with a PhD in Psychology (2022) and is currently a Research Fellow in the Centre for Health Technology at the University of Plymouth. He has previously worked on the EPSRC funded ICONIC research project, which explored how co-design can support digital inclusion for different generations in coastal and rural settings. He has also been part of the EPIC (ERDF funded) and GOALD (ESRC funded) research projects, working collaboratively to co-produce and co-deliver emerging health innovations with communities, patients and healthcare employees. His primary research interest is in the co-design of digital health innovations to support independence and quality of life, and has worked extensively with voice AI, extended reality, and social game technologies.
Technology & Ageing @BsgTechAgeSig
Dr Rory Baxter
Presentation 2: Co-creation of Socially Assistive Robotics to enhance wellbeing in dementia, Sergio Sierra, University of the West of England and the University of Bristol
This presentation explores the integration and co-creation of Socially Assistive Robotics to enhance the autonomy, safety, and emotional wellbeing of people living with dementia. We draw on findings from the UKRI MRC funded project SAW-Health, a socially assistive walker to promote the health and wellbeing of older adults. Over 20 older adults and 15 caregivers participated in co-design and usability sessions, shaping system features, interaction modes, and ethical frameworks. The system is undergoing real-world evaluations, focusing on personalisation, engagement, and user acceptance in partnership with institutions like AgeUK, ExtraCare, St Monica’s Trust, and the Pakistani Women Organisation. Key lessons include the value of inclusive design, the need for adaptable interaction, and the challenges of integrating robotics in dynamic care environments.
Presenter biography
Sergio Sierra is a PhD researcher at the University of the West of England and the University of Bristol, based at the Bristol Robotics Laboratory. His work focuses on assistive robotics, particularly the design and evaluation of smart robotic walkers that integrate AI, multimodal interaction, and health monitoring to support older adults in daily living and rehabilitation. His research combines human-robot interaction, machine learning, and user-centred design to improve mobility, independence, and quality of life in ageing populations.
For more information
For further information on this event please contact [email protected]
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