A Realist synthesis and evaluation of how mainstream smart home technologies can support independent living for disabled people: understanding what works for whom, in what circumstances, and why

Research question How can mainstream smart home technologies (SHT) support independent living for disabled adults aged 18–64, and under what circumstances, for whom, and through which mechanisms are these outcomes achieved? Background Mainstream smart home technologies (such as voice assistants, smart doorbells, and automated lighting) have the potential to support independent living among disabled adults by improving safety, convenience, social connection, and providing memory support. However, despite increasing interest and government investment, these technologies remain underutilised in social care settings. Barriers include fragmented evidence, lack of synthesis, inconsistent outcomes across contexts, digital apprehension, and limited practical guidance for both disabled users and professionals. Larger-scale trials and wider implementation efforts risk failure if they are not informed by a robust understanding of how, when, and why SHT works in different contexts. Aims and Objectives This project aims to: Use a Realist approach to develop programme theories- explanatory models that describe how and why smart home technologies support independent living, for whom, and in what contexts. Co-design and disseminate practical, evidence-based resources (e.g., accessible tutorial videos, handbooks, guides) to inspire and inform the use of SHT by disabled individuals and social care professionals. The projects focuses on relatively low-cost (<£200 per device) and widely available SHT. Methods The project is structured into three work packages (WP): WP1: Realist Synthesis (Months 0-9) We will conduct a realist synthesis of academic and grey literature to identify existing evidence on the use of SHT in supporting independent living for disabled adults. The synthesis will follow RAMSES standards and develop initial context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) configurations and programme theories, which will be refined through stakeholder consultation (Advisory Groups comprising professionals and lived experience members) and will be tested and refined in WP2. WP2: Realist Evaluation (Months 9-30) We will conduct semi-structured realist interviews with approximately 25 social care and housing professionals and 60 disabled adults (including both experienced and new users of SHT). New users will trial technology over 16 weeks (allocated based on need with social care professional input). Observations of SHT use in the home will complement interview data. Data will be analysed using realist methods to refine programme theories, with iterative input from Advisory Groups. WP3: Co-design of Resources and Dissemination (Months 30-36) We will co-design accessible training and guidance resources with disabled people and professionals through structured workshops. Outputs expected to include tutorial videos, easy-read handbooks and case studies. Alongside physical copies, we will create a dedicated online hub to host the resources, in partnership with Social Care Wales, with usage tracked to monitor impact. Anticipated Impact and Dissemination This project will generate actionable programme theories to inform future large-scale trials and digital transformation efforts in social care. Co-produced practical resources will support increased understanding and confidence of SHT among disabled people and social care professionals. Outputs will be disseminated via a national webinar, community outreach visits, social care and digital inclusion conferences, a stakeholder report, and academic publications.