UMBRELLA participated in the European Life After Stroke Forum (ELASF) 2026, held in Stockholm, engaging with researchers, clinicians, stroke survivors and innovators working to improve life after stroke. The forum provided a key opportunity to present the project’s vision and to exchange views on how research and innovation can better address real‑world needs.
A highlight of this year’s edition was the launch of the first Research Village, a dedicated space for European projects to showcase their work and engage directly with participants. Within this setting, UMBRELLA hosted its own stand, offering a focal point for discussion, knowledge exchange and collaboration throughout the event.
As highlighted by Mercedes Ayesta, Project Manager at NORA Health, UMBRELLA focuses on improving stroke care across the entire patient journey by addressing persistent challenges such as fragmented care pathways, unequal access to services and gaps in long‑term support. By combining artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools with real‑world data, the project aims to support faster diagnosis, better‑informed clinical decisions and more personalised follow‑up care.
To support outreach, UMBRELLA project flyers were shared with participants, including materials explaining the project and its AI lifecycle. These resources helped visitors better understand how emerging technologies are being developed and applied in stroke care, while encouraging informed discussion around their use.
UMBRELLA also invited participants to take part in the survey “Progress or caution — how do you view AI in stroke research?”. Addressed to healthcare professionals, researchers and people with lived experience, the survey gathers a range of perspectives on both the opportunities and concerns linked to AI in stroke care.
The broader ELASF 2026 programme highlighted the importance of linking research with lived experience and practical implementation, with particular emphasis on continuity of care after hospital discharge and the development of more inclusive, community‑based approaches. These priorities reflect the need for solutions that support stroke survivors beyond acute care and throughout the long‑term recovery process.
UMBRELLA’s approach is closely aligned with these principles, which emphasises patient‑centred innovation, stakeholder engagement and the responsible use of AI to improve stroke prevention and diagnosis, reduce time to treatment, and prevent long-term damage.. By fostering dialogue across clinical, research and community settings, the project aims to contribute to sustainable improvements in life after stroke.
