The i-Cue Dynamic support Environment is a unique combination of Telecare and Smart House technologies that involves almost all aspects of the home environment. By combining technologies for sensing, analysis, control and communications it can help support older people who wish to remain in their own home for as long as possible as well as allow people with cognitive and physical impairments to achieve higher levels of independence. 

The uniqueness of the i-Cue System lies both in the scope of its functionality and the dynamic nature of its operation.  Whereas most Telecare type systems have a predetermined reaction to sensor inputs, i-Cue will take the context of the event into account, either in terms of what is happening at that time or what has happened in the past, and react appropriately. This could be to call for assistance, prompt the user on the most appropriate course of action or take action itself.

Wherever possible it will encourage the resident do things themselves, either by cognitive support such as prompts or simplified interfaces, or by giving them controls which compensate for physical impairment.

The i-Cue can monitor activities over a period of time and present these graphically via the web.  If a parameter moves outside preset limits an automatic alert can be generated.  It can give family and support workers reassurance, for example, by letting them know that the user is at home or that their daily routine is normal. 

The i-Cue is available commercially and has been installed in a number of sites. It is suitable for either new build or retrofit.

The paper will cover the history, scope and structure of the system and give examples of applications.