The Ella4Life project examined how several existing, digital assistance systems for older people can be combined. The goal was to increase the quality of life in everyday life by combining them.
In the process, it was recognized that it is not possible to use just any systems side by side and automatically achieve an improvement. Real added value for an elderly person only arises when the person's needs match the totality of all the functions of the systems used. It is particularly helpful if the various systems can be operated via a uniform interface.
Based on this insight and other successfully completed projects of the iHomeLab, the digital assistant "Anne" could again be utilized in this project. Anne has a "face" (avatar) and thus communicates much more personally than a purely voice or text input-based system. Anne can not only simplify interaction, however, but also helps with everyday actions such as taking medication or reminding people of appointments. It also assists in contacting relatives or a care organization via video call.
In addition, Ella4Life can simplify the measurement and documentation of daily vital data, such as blood pressure readings. But also in the case of incipient forgetfulness, the assistance system Ella4Life can guide step by step through processes, be it making salad dressing or doing laundry. Anne, the always visible and responsive assistant, always remains friendly, even if she repeats the process instructions or appointment and medication reminders for the fifth time. Even the most patient relatives often fail to do this. Ella4Life can thus preserve the independence and quality of life of the elderly for as long as possible, even in the case of incipient dementia.
The system is suitable for use at home as well as in care centers.
