Dalarna University's logo and link to the university's website

Social isolation, loss of self esteem and depression are often a consequence of incontinence. The overall aim of this interdisciplinary project was to reduce the impact of continence difficulties and, thus, assist older people in maintaining a positive identity and good quality of life. The TACT3 project was comprised of three research work packages:

Assistive technology development:

Vibrating underpants: A washable fabric underwear wetness sensor and alert mechanism has been developed to alert continence pad users of leakage. In addition, a colour change odour indicating formula has been developed to indicate the presence of the odour of urine at a just imperceptible level.

Challenging environmental barriers to continence: Two sets of stakeholders were involved, older people with continence difficulties and toilet providers. Focus groups, workshops, interviews and photographic diaries were conducted to identify key issues. A web based map locating toilets in London was developed which is called the Great British Toilet Map.

Improving continence interventions and services: 140 patients and their carers were interviewed twice within a 12 month interval from a specialist continence clinic for older people and generic continence clinic. Twenty health and social care managers and 200 practitioners were also be interviewed. Care outcomes are being analysed from each clinic and a cost benefit analysis will be carried out.

Key findings from this three year interdisciplinary project are highlighted. Prototypes of the vibrating underpants and the odour sensor will be on display. This research was funded by the UK New Dynamics of Ageing Programme.