Words by Jade Williams
A new study is challenging the belief that dementia is incompatible with modern work environments, with digital technology and AI helping employees with the condition to continue working.
The report from the University of Bath argues that while digital technology does risk further inequalities for those with dementia, organisations can make simple adjustments to the workplace to help employees with cognitive impairments stay employed.
“The bottom line is that we have an ageing population and workforce in which dementia will feature and which should, and can be, accommodated by the judicious use of digital technology and adapting working conditions,” said Dr James Fletcher, School of Management, University of Bath. “The reality is this is not dealt with in any meaningful way right now – there are very rarely strategies in place.”
The study was released as the UK government unveiled new welfare reform plans aimed at increasing workforce participation among disabled individuals – including those with dementia. This research could inform the development of strategies to support this incoming demographic in the workforce.
Approximately 9% of the 35.6 million people living with dementia worldwide are under the age of 65, with around 370,000 new cases of young-onset dementia diagnosed each year – people who would still be working.
Small changes to the work environment, such as improved lighting, tools such as voice-activated controls and automatic reminders, can help employees with dementia do their jobs more effectively, with AI holding growing potential.
“AI offers really interesting opportunities – it is superb at solving many of the problems faced by those with dementia, such as finding words, organising text and putting words in the right sequence,” added Dr Fletcher.
The study ultimately calls for businesses to develop, adapt and deploy digital technology and AI solutions in working environments to help those with dementia to continue in employment.
