FRUX

Context aware services automatically adapt to the environment of a user, for instance to the location, time, or physical condition (e.g. hart rhythm and blood pressure) of a person. The social context of users is an important determinant for the information needs and well being of people. People are truly social beings.

The FRUX project explored how such information can be used to design smart context aware group services for two application domains: safety and healthcare. FRUX was part of the Freeband Communication Research Program. 

The social context is also an important factor in the well being of people. Being ill is not a pure medical process; it also has a social and emotional side to it, which can influence the course of a disease positively or negatively.  For instance, people who suffer from Alzheimer dis-ease are to a large extent dependent on the social support of care professionals, family and friends. Context aware services may provide new ways to support patients in their home environment, and new ways to ensure proper monitoring of these patients.

The FRUX project explored the possibilities and limitations of context-aware services for healthcare from three interrelated perspectives: 

• The user perspective: creating meaningful experiences
• The business perspective: dynamic service bundling
• The technology perspective: we-centric communication environments

DEM-DISC was a digital social software tool designed to provide personalized information about dementia care services. This application is intended to help people with dementia and care providers to navigate through the labyrinth of services and facilities available.