CareInMovement (CiM)
01. Introduction
The CareInMovement (CiM) project aimed to enhance the independence and mobility of older adults through innovative digital solutions. By combining smart technology with personal support, the project sought to empower communities to care for elderly people with chronic health conditions. The project addressed key challenges faced by older adults in maintaining mobility and independence while also supporting formal and informal carers.
02. Summary of the project aims and objectives
CiM Project (2015)
The primary goal of the CiM project was to develop and evaluate innovative digital solutions that support older adults’ mobility and enable better collaboration between formal and informal carers. The project focused on the integration of technology to support safe and independent living, aiming to combine health monitoring with personal assistance through connected digital tools.
03. Product development and key features
The JAMES TeleCare solution is a digital platform aimed at enhancing the safety and mobility of older adults. It integrates two core components developed during the CiM project:
- Virtual Motion Coach: Facilitates everyday physical activities by providing individualized exercises and training challenges.
- Virtual Empowerment Coach: Enhances collaboration between formal and informal carers by standardising communication and providing education through a unified nursing language.
The platform is accessible through tablets and smart devices, allowing older adults to monitor their health, stay connected, and access support from carers. JAMES TeleCare has been widely adopted and continues to evolve with additional features.
04. Partners
The CiM project involved 8 partners from multiple countries
- Salzburg Research Forschungsgesellschaft m.b.H. (R&D, Austria) [Coordinator]
- ilogs mobile software GmbH (SME, Austria)
- Eichenberger Szenografie (SME, Switzerland)
- Vienna University of Economics and Business (R&D, Austria)
- bit media e-solutions GmbH (Large industry, Austria)
- Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg (R&D, Austria)
- ALDIA Cooperativa Sociale (End-user, Italy)
- Hilfswerk Salzburg (End-user, Austria)
05.Impact on participating in an AAL project
Key Takeaways
- AAL participation was essential for the creation and commercialisation of the JAMES TeleCare solution. Without AAL funding, the solution would not have reached the market.
- Collaboration with academic and research institutions facilitated the technological development, while end-user organisations provided critical insights for usability and adoption.
- The project helped ilogs maintain long-term collaboration with university partners, even beyond the project's conclusion.
06. Main learnings from developing a solution through an AAL project
Organisational impacts
- Participation in the CiM project led to significant learning about integrating research findings into commercial products.
- Understanding the gap between academic research and market requirements was crucial for developing practical solutions.
- The project also emphasised the importance of user-centric design and real-world testing to ensure acceptance and practical utility.
07. Impact on networking and collaboration
Building partnerships
- The project established lasting connections with academic partners, which continue to influence ilogs' ongoing projects.
- Collaboration with end-user organisations like Hilfswerk Salzburg strengthened local community involvement and adoption.
08. Perceived benefits of participating in AAL Support Actions
- While ilogs did not directly participate in AAL Support Actions, the project itself significantly enhanced their ability to translate research into practical, user-friendly solutions.
09. How AAL supported development and market adoption
User involvement
- The project emphasised collaboration with older adults and carers from the beginning, which directly informed the product design and usability.
- Integrating the CARIMO solution within JAMES TeleCare demonstrated the benefit of combining research insights from multiple AAL projects.
10. Challenges encountered
- Market challenges: Integrating health and mobility solutions into public healthcare systems proved challenging due to funding structures.
- Adoption barriers: End-users required practical demonstrations to understand the value of technology-supported care.
- Financial sustainability: Maintaining the balance between innovation and affordability required continuous adjustments.
11. Actions needed to launch the product
- Increase collaboration with healthcare providers to facilitate integration into public health systems.
- Focus on user training and awareness to highlight the practical benefits of digital care solutions.
- Strengthen market visibility through targeted communication strategies.
12. Next steps
Target end-users
- Primary: Older adults and their formal/informal carers.
Commercial Strategy
- Expand the geographical reach of JAMES TeleCare, leveraging successful launches in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, Poland, Spain, and the Netherlands.
- Continue evolving the platform based on user feedback, with a particular focus on addressing social isolation and chronic disease management.