Emilyann Nault
Engaging older adults in cognitive activities can aid in maintaining cognition and slowing cognitive decline. This doctoral research targets older adults prior to the onset of age-related cognitive conditions (mild cognitive impairment and dementia) to proactively engage them over the long-term through the use of socially assistive robots (SARs) and sensory feedback. SARs have been shown to increase engagement with cogntive training in older adults, and sensory feedback has the potential to incresase engagement whilst decreasing workload.
During this doctoral research, we have assessed different SAR embodiments, as well as different types of auditory and haptic feedback (such as ultrasonic feedback and force feedback). User studies and Participatory Design methodologies have been employed to keep older adults and health care professionals at the centre of this research.
With a diverse background encompassing Computer Science, Neuroscience, and Psychology, Emilyann's passion lies in exploring the intersection of technology and healthcare. She is particularly intrigued by the potential of technological interventions, such as socially assistive robots, sensory feedback mechanisms, and brain-computer interfaces, to serve as powerful tools in enhancing the well-being of individuals in healthcare settings.
She is a Research Associate on the Feather project, which aims to develop a system for early detection of urinary tract infections.
