ebb&glow

By 2030, there are expected to be 1 million people living with dementia in the UK. Many - up to 66% - can experience Sundowning; a type of agitation which typically begins late in the day, causing a repetitive cycle of sleepless nights for people living with dementia and caregivers.

ebb&glow targets disruptions to the circadian rhythm, which is the cause of sundowning as dementia progresses. Daily blue light therapy is used to help regulate the circadian rhythm, tailored to the complex sensory needs of people living with dementia. Short wavelength blue light provides an alternative to bright light therapy (SAD lamps), which are approximately 100 times brighter for the same effect on shifting the circadian rhythm. The reduced brightness increases user comfort and minimises sensory stimulation.

Introduced early into dementia diagnosis, ebb&glow aims to support caregivers with growing functionality as people living with dementia’s needs change throughout their dementia journey. The hand-held pebble shape is tactile and the single button allows users, from early diagnosis to advanced stages of dementia, to interact with smart home devices independently. This interaction is fully customisable and includes music, sound, light and helpful reminders.

ebb&glow has been developed in collaboration with Alzheimer Scotland, clinical and research psychologists along with dementia design consultants to develop the best technical solution to improve sundowning symptoms.

Feedback from people living with dementia has enabled the development of form, interface complexity and technical elements.