XBOX RESEARCH PROJECT TO KEEP OLDER PEOPLE SAFE NOMINATED FOR NATIONAL AWARD

The MiiHome project, which is being trialled in Salford, aims to help older people live more safely in their homes for longer by tracking their movements using artificial intelligence.

The project is a collaboration between housing association Salix Homes, working alongsideSalford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, The University of Manchester, and The University of Salford.

Now the project has been shortlisted in the Innovation of the Year category in the prestigious 24 Housing Awards, which recognises excellence in the housing sector.

The project has seen X-Box Kinect sensors, which detect movement, fitted into a number of properties at Salix Homes’ sheltered living schemes, which provide accommodation for older people.

Jonathan Drake, service director at Salix Homes, said:

Quote

 

“The idea of MiiHome is that it acts as a sort of ‘digital guardian angel’ which is able to detect changes in behaviour that could mean something is wrong, for example someone’s gait may have slowed down, or they may be getting up more than usual in the night.

“Its aim is to provide an early warning system to enable a health professional to step in and provide the right sort of care before the situation escalates, and hopefully reduce hospital admissions and pressure on our already overstretched NHS.

“It’s a trial-blazing project which could change the landscape of how health and housing is delivered in the future, so to be nominated for such a prestigious industry award really is the icing on the cake.”

 

And it’s double the celebration for Salix Homes, as its new affordable housing development –Alexander Gardens in Broughton – has also been shortlisted in the Affordable Housing Scheme of the Year Category.

Alexander Gardens, which was damaged in the Boxing Day 2015 floods, has been completely remodelled and transformed to provide affordable housing exclusively for doctors, nurses and medical staff.

The project is a collaboration with Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust to help them plug an acute staff shortage at the local hospital by providing a comprehensive employment and accommodation package for potential new recruits.

Lee Sugden, chief executive at Salix Homes, added:

Quote

“It’s a real honour for Salix Homes to have two of our projects named as finalists in the 24 Housing Awards, and it’s testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.”

The winners of the 24 Housing Awards will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.