ReelLife Conversation #1

Building something innovative in the dementia space has given me the chance to meet amazing people whose life’s work is helping advance the science and practice of dementia care. Today I’m sharing an introduction to one of ReelLife Conversations’ Scientific Advisors, Dr Phil Joddrell. 

Phil splits his time as a Research Fellow at Dementia UK and a researcher at the University of Sheffield in the Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare (CATCH). He has worked with people living with dementia since 2008, working first as a care assistant and later as an Assistant Psychologist in the older adult services of a mental health hospital, before transitioning into research in 2014. Phil’s PhD research focused on the digital accessibility of everyday technologies for people with dementia. He set up the AcTo Dementia website based on the results of this work, which recommends accessible touchscreen apps for people living with dementia.

Louise: Why do you think it’s important to facilitate shared experiences between people with dementia and their families, and how can technology support this?

Phil: When carrying out my research into digital accessibility for people living with dementia, I met a man living in a care home who had started playing one of the touchscreen games recommended on the AcTo Dementia website. He shared with me how he had been able to play this game with his grandchild during a care visit, and how it had given them common ground and allowed them to connect in a way that they hadn’t before.

Shared digital experiences such as these can empower people with dementia whilst challenging age and dementia related stereotypes. People with dementia are capable of using touchscreen technology when it is designed with their needs in mind. The intuitive nature of touchscreen interfaces, when combined with meaningful content, makes these tools ideal for fostering engagement and enjoyment. Most importantly, the technology is not the focus; the human connection is.

Louise: Given your extensive research on technology and dementia, what do you think families and care professionals need to be focused on when it comes to new tools and technology?

Phil: In a world increasingly shaped by digital innovation, it’s important not to just use technology for convenience, but also to use it to support connection. 

Accessible design of digital technology is essential to facilitate these opportunities. Without it, we risk creating a digital divide, where people with dementia are excluded from an increasingly prevalent part of modern society.  The approach that you and the team at RLC have taken to design a dementia inclusive design is a positive step change in software development processes.  The simplicity of the design is obviously critical, but the more subtle aspects of design, such as colour and font type really make the product suitable for all.  I also really appreciate the thinking behind some of the features, such as the wording on the notifications.

Louise: At ReelLife Conversations, we’re building a tech-enabled support tool to create more meaningful conversations and interactions with people living with dementia. What shaped your decision to join us on this adventure? 

Phil: During a care visit, a simple conversation can become a lifeline. For people living with dementia, communication is more than just exchanging words, it's a vital connection to identity, relationships, and emotional well-being. Supporting these conversations, even as language and memory change, is one of the most meaningful ways we can show care, respect, and humanity.

As dementia progresses, individuals often face increasing difficulty with verbal expression and comprehension. Yet, the need to connect remains strong. The act of being spoken to and listened to can affirm a person’s dignity and worth.

Without meaningful interaction, people with dementia may become withdrawn, anxious, or depressed. They may feel isolated or misunderstood, especially if others stop engaging with them out of fear of saying the wrong thing. This is why it’s crucial to support carers, family members, and professionals in continuing to talk with, not just care for, people living with dementia.

Louise: At ReelLife Conversations, we are focused on moving beyond transaction-based care visits to better support the social/emotional well-being of a person living with dementia. What is your opinion on the types of care happening today?

Phil: Care visits are often brief, task-focused, and time-pressured. But they are also opportunities for connection. A few minutes of conversation can transform a routine visit into a moment of joy or calm.

These conversations can reinforce identity by acknowledging the person’s history, preferences, and personality.  I have also seen conversations reduce distress by offering reassurance and emotional support, and encourage engagement with the world around them.  

Many carers worry about how to talk to someone with dementia. They may feel unsure about what to say or how to respond to confusion or repetition. That’s why creating tools to support carers to communicate effectively can make a huge difference. For those living with dementia, every conversation can be a reminder that they matter and that they are still part of the world around them.