Developing an AI-assisted Age-friendly Built Environment Assessment System(ABEAS): A multidisciplinary Approach to Investigatiing Air Pollution Exposure and Cognitive Health Impacts in Vulnerable Groups

This project aims to develop the AI-assisted Age-friendly Built Environment Assessment System (ABEAS), utilizing AI computational methods to evaluate the age-friendliness of built environments across multiple factors, including accessibility, safety, and exposure to environmental risks. ABEAS will assess the impacts of both indoor and outdoor air pollution, focusing on pollutants like microbial bioaerosols and particulate matter, particularly in environments where vulnerable populations, such as older adults, reside. The project will integrate data from cutting-edge sensor technologies such as the NAQTS V2000 and low-cost environmental diagnostics identified in the SAQN Scoping Study, which highlighted key risks in indoor air quality management. By combining real-time air quality data and AI modeling, the system will evaluate the health and cognitive impacts of environmental factors. This research brings together multidisciplinary expertise from Leeds, Ulster University, and LSBU, leveraging a wealth of data to create a decision-support tool that aids city planners, public health officials, and healthcare policymakers in improving the built environment. The work involves developing computational models and conducting field studies in age-friendly environments. These models will simulate how environmental factors such as air quality, accessibility, and social infrastructure impact the health and well-being of older adults. Real-world data will be collected from pilot studies in environments such as Nottingham City Home to validate the system’s effectiveness in assessing air pollution exposure and its health risks, especially regarding cognitive decline. Aligning with the BBSRC and UKRI strategic theme of "securing better health, ageing, and wellbeing," the project addresses critical societal challenges posed by an ageing population in urban areas. The research focuses on creating environments that promote healthy ageing by mitigating the risks associated with urban pollution and poor infrastructure. By offering detailed assessments of the built environment, the project will provide insights for designing safer, more accessible, and healthier urban spaces for older adults, particularly those living in high-risk areas affected by poor air quality. This project not only aligns with the Blue Zone Consortium's themes of promoting health and well-being through scientific innovation but also supports the UK government’s broader goals of improving public health outcomes, fostering sustainability, and enhancing the quality of life for ageing populations. The outputs from this project will contribute to the development of healthier living environments, reducing healthcare costs associated with age-related health issues, and guiding policymakers in creating age-friendly urban spaces.