The COMFORTage Community Forum (CCF) is dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and impactful solutions for dementia and frailty care. To ensure clarity, focus, and purpose, the forum is organised into three thematic areas. These areas aim to address the multifaceted challenges associated with dementia and frailty, driving progress through specialisation, structured collaboration, and targeted dissemination of insights.

Why Thematic Areas Matter

Organising the CCF into thematic areas brings numerous benefits:

• Focused Expertise: Stakeholders can concentrate on specific aspects of dementia and frailty care, enhancing the depth and relevance of discussions.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Critical issues, from service delivery to technology and prevention strategies, are systematically addressed.
• Enhanced Collaboration: The framework encourages interdisciplinary efforts, fostering synergies that amplify impact.
• Targeted Communication: Tailored messages and resources resonate with specific audiences, ensuring effective engagement.
• Policy Influence: Evidence and recommendations generated within each area can guide policies to improve care.

Thematic Area 1: Dementia and Frailty Service Delivery Models for Patients and Carers

Lead Organisation: EHTEL

This thematic area focuses on innovative approaches to address the unmet needs of individuals affected by dementia and frailty, as well as their carers. By extending autonomy and enhancing quality of life, it paves the way for impactful service delivery models.

Key Subcategories:

1. Patient and Caregiver Needs: Analysing emotional, physical, and practical support requirements.
2. Digital Health Interventions: Evaluating market-aligned technologies and viable business models.
3. Policy and Funding Choices: Examining decisions that support innovation.
4. Integrated Care: Bridging clinical and social care for better coordination.
5. Service Adoption Evidence: Promoting the uptake of proven digital services.
6. AI Integration: Exploring ethical and regulatory use of AI to bridge gaps.

Thematic Area 2: Skills to Facilitate Service Delivery Models

Lead Organisation: DEPAN

This area focuses on building a skilled workforce equipped to navigate modern dementia care, particularly within the digital health landscape.

Key Subcategories:

1. Digital Literacy: Enhancing the use of telehealth, electronic records, and more.
2. Training Programmes: Offering workshops, online courses, and certifications.
3. Support Resources: Providing toolkits, best practices, and professional networks.

Thematic Area 3: AI-Based Prevention of Cognitive Decline

Lead Organisation: CERTH

Prevention is at the heart of this thematic area, which leverages AI and innovative technologies to promote cognitive health and prevent decline.

Key Subcategories:

1. Prevention Tools: Employing AI-driven systems and ambient-assisted living technologies.
2. Cognitive Training: Offering gamified exercises and AI-supported activities.
3. Research and Innovation: Showcasing breakthroughs in dementia prevention.

A Path Towards Enhanced Care and Prevention

The thematic areas of the CCF provide a robust framework to address the complex challenges of dementia and frailty care. By focusing on service delivery, workforce skills, and prevention through technology, the CCF is set to create meaningful impacts that improve the quality of life for individuals and their carers.

Benefits of Joining the COMFORTage Community Forum (CCF)

Joining the CCF provides diverse stakeholders with tailored benefits, fostering meaningful engagement, collaboration, and innovation. This collective effort enhances care and support for individuals affected by dementia and frailty.

For End Users

(Patients, Informal Carers, Health and Care Professionals, Providers, Users’ Associations, Citizens)

• Access to Resources and Information: Stay updated with the latest research, best practices, and innovations for managing dementia and frailty.
• Support Network: Connect with others facing similar challenges, fostering mutual support and practical advice sharing.
• Influence on Research and Policy: Contribute experiences and insights to shape research and policy decisions.
• Educational Opportunities: Participate in webinars to enhance knowledge and skills in dementia and frailty care.
• Sharing Best Practices: Exchange effective strategies with peers to improve care quality.

For Policy Makers and Regulators

(Policymakers, Standards and Certification Bodies, Professional Bodies, Legal-ESG Companies)

• Informed Decision-Making: Access comprehensive data and evidence-based practices to guide policies and regulations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with end users and providers to ensure responsive and effective policies.
• Collaborative Policy Development: Partner with researchers and stakeholders to create integrated approaches to dementia and frailty care.

For Research and Innovation Stakeholders

(Researchers, Relevant Projects, Scientific Societies)

• Collaborative Research Opportunities: Partner with others to enhance the impact of studies.
• Data and Resources: Access GDPR-compliant data and resources for cutting-edge research.
• Dissemination and Visibility: Boost research visibility and impact through the forum’s network.
• Feedback and Validation: Receive constructive feedback from a diverse community of stakeholders.

For the Supply Side

(Digital Health Companies/SMEs, Clusters)

• Market Insights: Understand end-user and provider needs to guide product development.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with potential partners and collaborators in the health and care ecosystem.
• Showcasing Innovations: Present new technologies and solutions to an engaged audience.
• Standardisation and Certification: Stay updated on regulatory standards and certification requirements.

Stay connected with the COMFORTage Community Forum to learn more about these thematic areas and how they are shaping the future of dementia and frailty care.