The scheme, called Back to Bradford: An Immersive Experience, uses digital technology to support wellbeing through memory and connection.
People with dementia are invited to step inside the university’s iGloo, a seven-metre immersive space, where they experience a presentation of images and videos from Bradford’s past and present, including the blue trolleybus, Odsal Stadium, Shipley Glen Tramway, the 1973 demolition of Kirkgate Market, and a steam train arriving at Haworth Station.
Michael Andrews, who was diagnosed with posterior cortical atrophy in 2017, said: “The photograph of the Bradford riots brought back memories for me.
Roberts Park in Saltaire is one of the images featured in the immersive technology experience (Image: Kiran Mehta @ KM Images Ltd)
“It’s a good project for people with dementia and it will help to bring back memories for the older generation.
“I enjoyed seeing the older images of Bradford.”
The project is designed to prompt conversation by triggering memories and emotions, with participants encouraged to share their thoughts.
Dr Ana Barbosa, senior research fellow at the Centre for Digital Innovations in Health and Social Care at the University of Bradford, said: “The project helps to trigger positive memories and promote and improve the mood of people with dementia.
“It is an example of the University of Bradford using digital innovations to promote wellbeing.
“We want to use immersive technology as a therapeutic tool, not just for people with dementia, but also with other vulnerable populations.”
The team collects feedback using eye-tracking technology, audio recordings of discussions, and regular interviews.
Erica Bellamy, the university’s director of digital health and social care, said: “Immersive technologies offer a powerful way to connect people to their memories, their communities, and each other.
“By stepping into familiar places through digital projection, participants can experience moments of joy, reflection, and emotional connection.”
Michael Andrews, who was diagnosed with a rare type of dementia in 2017, views the ‘Back to Bradford’ presentation inside the iGloo (Image: Kiran Mehta @ KM Images Ltd)
Hasnehn Haider, immersive learning lead at the university, added: “Capturing the real-world places and spaces, using specialist 360-degree camera equipment, enabled me to really connect with the project.
“From Haworth to Saltaire, and eventually to the centre of Bradford, these places have real significance for so many people who have walked those paths.”
The iGloo was one of the first installations to offer immersivity with floor projection.
It was funded by the Arts & Humanities Research Council Capability for Collections Scheme (CapCo), with support from the university’s Digital Health and Social Care and Archaeology and Forensic Sciences teams.
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