Scientific Approach
The RADAR-AD project employed a rigorous scientific approach to monitor and assess Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression using remote monitoring technologies. Building upon the RADAR-CNS framework, RADAR-AD focused on identifying digital biomarkers indicative of functional decline in early AD stages.
Digital Biomarker Identification
RADAR-AD aimed to identify biosignatures indicative of functional decline in early Alzheimer's Disease (AD) by using remote monitoring techniques. The goal was to do so by exploring how mobile technologies – such as smartphones, wearables, and home-based sensors – can measure disability progression associated with AD with greater sensitivity than currently used methods, such as direct observation or caregiver recall.
Remote Monitoring Platform
RADAR-AD developed a digital platform that drew on smartphone, wearable, and home-based digital technologies to track subtle changes in the cognitive and functional abilities of people with Alzheimer's disease. This platform adapted the existing RADAR-CNS project’s platform for Alzheimer's disease.
Patient and Public Involvement (PPI)
Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) is about carrying out research ‘with’ or ‘by’ members of the public (e.g., people living with the condition, their carers/supporters, and the general public), rather than ‘to’, ‘about’ or ‘for’ them, and should be conducted in such a way that it promotes their meaningful and active involvement.
People affected by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can bring a unique perspective to research. They can actively and meaningfully contribute towards several aspects of the project. To involve people affected by AD in an appropriate and significant manner, RADAR-AD has set up an international Patient Advisory Board (PAB) and has conducted local focus groups in the Netherlands, Greece, and the UK.