Talk2Health Project

There are now half a million people in their 90s in the UK according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), more than two and a half times the number in 1985\. By 2041 in the UK, the ONS estimates that there will be 3.2 million people aged 85 years and older.

The incidence of MSK conditions increases as we age, through development of arthritis, loss of muscle tone and balance, and stiffening of soft tissues. Physical activity can impact all these physical changes and reduce pain leading to improved health, independence and socialising. In the UK, 40% of people 35-64 years of age live with an MSK condition, compared to 61% of those over 65\. Many elderly people report multiple MSK pain sites.

Fractures, which are often a consequence of falls, are one of the most serious MSK problems seen in the older population. The Royal College of Physicians found that fractures and falls in people aged 65 and over account for over 4 million hospital bed days each year in England.

As patients transition to digital, care models must be accessible and easy to adopt. Digital Health Consumer Survey 2020 reports over 60% of consumers would use digital health solutions if available. Healthcare providers must give equal access to healthcare for those in equal need, but widespread digital engagement relies on computer literacy hence online assessments can be challenging, particularly for those most disadvantaged in society.

The goal of this project is to design and execute an easy-to-use humanised digital assessment and triaging/self-management solution to reduce pain, maintain mobility and encourage physical activity in an ageing and technology challenged demographic. The collaborators aim to improve PhysioWizard accessibility and engagement in the ageing population (55+ year-olds), by evaluating a range of voice-enabled options including pop-up avatar and simple voice enabled guidance, with a view to incorporating this technology to reach a far wider audience.