The Researcher in Focus in April's DRNI CONNECT is Dr Dympna O'Sullivan, Academic Lead at the Digital Futures Research Hub, TU Dublin. We caught up with Dympna who told us about her fascinating research in the area of assistive technology.
What is your area of research?
My research is in the design, development and evaluation of assistive technology that enhances independent living for persons with age related cognitive impairments. Along with my colleague Dr Julie Doyle from NetwellCASALA at Dundalk Institute of Technology and our transdisciplinary research team we have developed a holistic digital platform for self-management for age-related cognitive decline. The platform integrates visual care planning, passive and on-body sensing for monitoring activities, information and educational materials and brain training and psychosocial support materials. Artificial Intelligence is used to adapt content and personalize support as the condition progresses. The platform is focused on delaying progression by delivering relevant interventions and content at the right time. We view assistive technology as an early-stage intervention to fill the gap in the delayed provision of services that is common for age-related cognitive conditions.
Our research is underpinned by a co-design approach, the platform has been co-designed with persons with age-related cognitive impairments, their informal carers, health care professional and stakeholders from dementia charity organisations in order to understand the unique needs of persons with age-related cognitive impairments.
What made you interested in this area?
I have always had an interest in how technology can be used to support aging and independence. As the population grows older, it is becoming more important to find innovative ways to help people live well for longer. I am really interested in how thoughtful and participatory design can help develop technologies that not only respond to changing health needs, but also promote quality of life and connection as people age.
What impact would you like your research to have?
I am passionate about seeing assistive technology, such as the platform we have developed, widely adopted as a proactive early intervention; not only to delay the progression of conditions like dementia, but also to transform long-term outcomes and quality of life for individuals and their families. Technology solutions should not only be innovative but also accessible, especially when supporting people as they age. Innovation alone isn't enough, the real impact happens when cutting-edge tools like AI are combined with thoughtful, human-centred design.
Who has helped or inspired you in your area of research?
I’ve been inspired by so many people along the way, from the individuals and families living with age-related cognitive impairments who have shared their experiences with me, to the brilliant PhD students and postdocs in my research team who are dedicated to understanding how technology can support aging.
What current research are you most excited about (your own, or that of others)?
Right now, I’m particularly excited about the potential of generative AI (GenAI) as a tool to support independent living. In my own work, I see huge possibilities for using GenAI to personalize support, deliver timely information and adapt resources to a person’s changing needs in ways that feel natural and intuitive. GenAI provides more interaction opportunities, for example, voice-driven conversations making it easier to access information, manage routines and control devices without needing to rely on complex interfaces.
What do you do when you are not working?
When I’m not working, I’m kept busy with my young family, but I also love cycling. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy some time outdoors.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
I’ve been very lucky to have many mentors throughout my career, and one of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is to “stay curious and stay true to the questions that drive you.” Research isn’t always about immediate answers, but about continually exploring, learning and evolving with the process.
Contact Details:
Dympna O Sullivan, Lead, Digital Futures Research Hub, Technological University Dublin
dympna.osullivan@tudublin.ie, https://www.linkedin.com/in/dympna-o-sullivan-59222653/