The 3 year Consumer Models for Assisted Living (COMODAL)
project, funded by Innovate UK, aims to support the
development of a consumer market for electronic assisted living
technologies (eALT) for younger older people.
It focuses on those people aged 50-70 who are approaching
retirement and older age to gain an in-depth
understanding of the barriers to market development and
create consumer led business models developed
through collaboration with consumer, industry and the third sector.
Innovations include a direct and unique focus on the consumer retail market, social
innovation techniques (co-creation, active consumers, user-led design) and a multi-sector
partnership between Health Design & Technology Institute, Coventry University, Age UK,
Grandparents Plus, Years Ahead and South East Health Technology Alliance (SEHTA).
Extensive consumer and industry research identified the factors that encourage an
informed eALT consumer market and developed solutions to overcome barriers identified
by current and potential consumers. This data informed the development and exploration
of a number of promising consumer-led business models. The modelling utilised a
Business Model Canvas to describe new approaches in the eALT market, and how it can be
arranged and developed to align with consumer needs.
The COMODAL project opens up greater understanding to maximise the opportunities
that are presented by changing age demographics. By understanding the needs of
consumers aged between 50 and 70, and subsequently thinking creatively and inclusively,
we can break away from a solely needs-based and stigmatising business models to a truly
consumer-driven model that supports active and healthy ageing in younger older people.
For further information please contact;
Dr Gillian Ward, g.ward@coventry.ac.uk
Download the project reports here:
