Technology can provide support to help veterans live independently in their community according to a new report by researchers at University of the West of Scotland.

The research, funded by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs and based on the experience of 70 veterans, makes several recommendations including on how strategic partnership working could improve services and how technology could benefit veterans. 

Scotland has a largely aging veteran population, with the demand for health and social care from this section of the population likely to increase in coming years for both general ailments but also more complex needs connected to military service.

Although technological aids may not be suitable for some patients, due to mental health issues or conditions such as dementia, the report found that even introducing everyday technology could make a huge difference to some veterans’ lives.

The report highlights one case study where a veteran, who was prone to falling, had found his condition was severely impacting his independence and that of his wife, who worried about leaving him alone. Simple technological aids, including a Ring doorbell and an Alexa linked to an iPad, were introduced. These increased the couple’s feelings of safety and security and allowed family members to check in with them remotely. They also received a robot vacuum cleaner, which was used upstairs and stopped the couple trying to carry their heavy vacuum cleaner up and down the stairs.

The addition of this technology, along with traditional approaches such as fitting a handrail outside next to steps and occupational therapy, vastly improved the veteran’s confidence, mobility and independence.

The research was undertaken in partnership with NHS Lanarkshire Social Care Partnership and the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) and led by Professor Murray Leith from the University’s Centre for Migration, Diaspora, Citizenship & Identity.

“Once they have had time and support to familiarise themselves with technological aids, most veterans were extremely satisfied. The aids were seen as having significantly improved their individual feelings of safety and security. Our report makes several recommendations on ensuring a joined-up approach to information, training, support, and use of the tools themselves. We hope it will provide the necessary guidance to ensure any future support systems put in place are successful.”
Professor Murray Leith Professor Murray Leith

 Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns MP, said,

“This new research highlights how innovative technology enables veterans to maintain independence and dignity, through simple solutions like smart doorbells and voice assistants. 

“By providing money through the Government’s £5 million Veterans’ Health Innovation Fund, we’re ensuring that the veteran community can benefit from the latest technology and innovation, to ensure they get the care they deserve.

"It’s part of the government’s commitment to renewing the contract with those who have served, as we roll out the new VALOUR support network, which will bring together all vital services into one coordinated system that puts veterans at the centre.”

The full report can be found here.

This research aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals on Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).