The European population is ageing, making the “silver economy” one of the fastest-growing economic sectors. This trend is creating a demand for technological products or services that are primarily used by the elderly and their carers.
The co-creation process makes the development and introduction of these products or services much easier. Get to know this process, as well as the innovative products and services!
Did you know that by 2060, every third European will be over 65? Even now, a vast number of products are available for the elderly and their carers, but issues often arise with these. For example, older people do not know how to use the available technologies.
Why co-creation in particular?
Co-creation generally refers to a product or service design process in which information and feedback from end-users play a central role. In addition, it can lead to great results, going far beyond what an organisation or an individual can achieve alone. In the case of co-creation in home care, it involves the involvement of older people and their carers.
Older people work in joint focus groups with SMEs, public service providers and representatives of academia to co-design, develop and immediately feedback on the features of a product or service. This type of involvement helps ensure the end result is easily implementable and promotes acceptance among end users.
Experimental, testing phase
„The HoCare2.0 project contributes to the creation of innovative home care services and products. 11 partners are participating in the project – including the Central Transdanubian Regional Innovation Agency – with the shared goal of helping the elderly, their family members and carers,” said Dr Ákos Szépvölgyi, Managing Director of the agency. „We are currently in the pilot phase with E-Med4All Europe Kft,” he added.
The name of the device under development and its associated service is SCN4ALL, which involves the development of a “smart pulse oximeter”. These pilot tests, which also include SME and public utility developments, are currently taking place simultaneously in 6 European countries.
About the HoCare2.0 project
The project supports the implementation and introduction of client-centred home care solutions by applying the method of co-creation. This involves the involvement of SMEs, public institutions, research institutes and individuals in the development of new, innovative health and social services or products.
The project is being implemented by 11 partners from 6 different Central European countries: the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Slovenia.
For further information, please feel free to contact the agency at the email address below:
kdriu@kdriu.hu
This project is co-funded by the European Union under the Interreg Central Europe Programme.
The project is implemented through the Interreg Central Europe Programme, with the support of the European Regional Development Fund, and co-financed by the European Union and the Hungarian State.