Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Chambers: The Intersection of Healthcare and Advanced Technology

In the field of technology hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is an example of human innovation and technological progress. At the heart of this therapy are oxygen chambers, which combine knowledge with state of the art technology. This article delves into the technology found in these chambers revealing how they are transforming both the healthcare and tech sectors.

The Technological Heart of Hyperbaric Oxygen Chambers

Hyperbaric oxygen chambers, or HBOT chambers, are not just medical devices; they are technological wonders. These chambers are designed to create a highly controlled environment where patients can breathe 100% oxygen at pressures greater than normal atmospheric pressure. The technology behind these chambers involves complex engineering principles, ensuring precise control over pressure and oxygen levels, crucial for the therapy’s efficacy.

Advanced Engineering in Chamber Design

The design of hyperbaric oxygen chambers reflects a perfect harmony between functionality and patient comfort. Modern chambers, such as those designed by OxyHelp, incorporate advanced materials and ergonomic features, ensuring patient safety and comfort during therapy sessions. These design elements are not just about aesthetics; they are integral to the therapeutic effectiveness of the chambers.

List of Technological Features in Modern HBOT Chambers

 

  • Automated control systems for precise oxygen and pressure regulation.
  • Advanced safety mechanisms to ensure patient security.
  • Ergonomic designs for enhanced patient comfort.
  • Energy-efficient systems for sustainable operation.
  • Integration with digital health platforms for remote monitoring.

 

The Role of HBOT in Modern Healthcare

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has found its place in contemporary healthcare, thanks to the advanced technology of these chambers. A study published on PubMed highlights the therapy’s effectiveness in treating a range of medical conditions, from wound healing to neurorehabilitation. This effectiveness is largely attributable to the sophisticated technology employed in HBOT chambers.

Innovations in Material and Manufacturing

The manufacturing process of hyperbaric chambers is a feat of engineering. As detailed in an article by Zemat Technology Group, the production of these chambers involves precision engineering and the use of high-quality materials. This ensures not only the durability and safety of the chambers but also their efficiency in delivering therapeutic levels of oxygen.

Exploring the Digital Integration in HBOT Chambers

The digital integration in hyperbaric oxygen chambers marks a significant leap in healthcare technology. Modern HBOT chambers are often equipped with digital interfaces, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustments during therapy sessions. 

This integration not only enhances the precision of the treatment but also provides valuable data analytics, enabling healthcare providers to tailor treatments to individual patient needs. The potential for these chambers to connect with broader digital health ecosystems is vast, paving the way for more personalized and effective healthcare solutions.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness in Chamber Design

In an era where environmental sustainability is paramount, the design and operation of hyperbaric oxygen chambers are evolving to be more eco-friendly. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on using sustainable materials and designing energy-efficient systems. 

This shift towards eco-consciousness in medical technology not only reduces the environmental impact of these devices but also aligns with the global commitment to sustainable healthcare solutions. By integrating green technology, HBOT chambers are setting new standards in the intersection of healthcare, technology, and environmental stewardship.

The Future of HBOT: AI and Machine Learning

Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in hyperbaric oxygen therapy presents exciting possibilities. AI could be used to analyze patient data, optimize treatment protocols, and even predict patient outcomes, enhancing the efficacy of HBOT. Machine learning algorithms could also play a role in automating certain aspects of the therapy, ensuring optimal pressure and oxygen levels are maintained throughout each session. This fusion of HBOT with AI and machine learning could revolutionize not just hyperbaric therapy but the broader field of medical technology.

Enhancing Patient Experience with Advanced Technology

The patient experience in hyperbaric oxygen chambers is being transformed by technological advancements. From comfortable, spacious designs to interactive features that allow patients to relax or stay entertained during treatment, the focus is on making HBOT a positive and comfortable experience. 

The incorporation of virtual reality (VR) for relaxation and distraction during sessions is one such innovation, showcasing how technology can be used to enhance patient comfort and compliance with treatment protocols. As HBOT technology continues to evolve, the patient experience remains a central focus, ensuring that this life-enhancing therapy is as pleasant as it is effective.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A Tech-Driven Medical Solution

The integration of HBOT in medical treatment is a clear example of how technology can enhance healthcare. These chambers, with their advanced control systems and safety features, represent a significant step forward in medical technology. They exemplify how technological innovation can lead to more effective and safer medical treatments.

OxyHelp: At the Forefront of HBOT Technology

OxyHelp, renowned for their expertise in designing and engineering hyperbaric chambers, stands at the forefront of this technological revolution. Their commitment to innovation is evident in every chamber they produce, making them a leading name in the field of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Conclusion

As we delve into the world of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it becomes clear that the technology behind these chambers is as vital as the therapy itself. The advancements in HBOT technology not only enhance the effectiveness of the treatment but also ensure patient safety and comfort. For those interested in exploring the cutting-edge of medical technology, a visit to the OxyHelp website offers a comprehensive look into the future of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Join the journey with OxyHelp, where technology meets healthcare to improve lives.

Met Éireann and University College Dublin launch new AI-focused research programme supporting weather and climate services development

Met Éireann, the Irish National Meteorological Service, announces a new multi-million-euro academic research programme at University College Dublin (UCD) to support the further development of weather and climate services for Ireland using data science and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Met Éireann Weather and Climate Research Professorship will incorporate a €1 million annual investment for an initial period of five years. Overseen by an expert knowledge transfer team at Met Éireann working closely with a professor-led research group at UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics and UCD Earth Institute, the partnership will build further capacity and capability in data science and AI in the higher education sector.

In direct response to impacts of climate change, the overarching objectives of the collaboration will focus on enhancing citizen safety, bolstering economic and environmental resilience, and supporting weather-sensitive sectors, by harnessing the latest innovations in the use of data science and AI in weather and climate services.

The programme will strive to bridge the gap between research and operations, by conducting cutting-edge, user-oriented studies, in the context of high impact weather, flood forecasting and the understanding of our climate, and using knowledge gained to train the next generation of scientists and engineers.

The research and development of AI models and techniques will enable Met Éireann to build on existing state-of-the-art forecasting capabilities, while developing skill levels to further enhance national capabilities and capacity in weather, climate and hydrology, and help to make Ireland even more weather and climate prepared for the future.

The establishment of the Met Éireann Research Professorship follows an international peer review process, through which UCD’s application was selected based on its demonstration of excellence and impact, and its commitment to collaboration and knowledge transfer for the benefit of society and the economy.

Eoin Moran, Director of Met Éireann said:

“This Professorship is an innovative and first-of-its-kind partnership for Met Éireann. In doing this, we are putting Met Éireann at the forefront of technological developments that will shape national meteorological and hydrological services for years to come.

“Not only is it a significant investment in the development of national forecasting capabilities and capacity but it will help make Ireland even more weather and climate prepared, by enhancing and improving the level of information available to the public.

“We are hugely excited by the prospect of working closely with UCD, and of the potential opportunities this could lead to in the responsible use of AI for good.”

Professor Helen Roche, UCD’s Interim Vice-President for Research, Impact and Innovation said:

“The emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning provides an opportunity to enhance our forecasting capabilities. UCD’s world-leading experts in this dynamic field are conceiving and evolving creative solutions that impact all of society and our daily life.

“UCD researchers will help develop AI-enhanced models to enable Met Éireann to build on its forecasting capabilities and make Ireland even more weather and climate prepared.

“This ground-breaking partnership between UCD and Met Éireann will help produce the next generation of climate and weather scientists and help ensure that we have the tools and expertise needed to tackle the climate emergency.

“UCD and Met Éireann have a long-standing relationship in working together to enhance weather forecasting. By harnessing the power of AI to support the protection of life, property and infrastructure, this partnership takes that relationship to the next level.”

Last minute Christmas travel tech gifts – QDOS chargers and power

If you are travelling this Christmas check out these last minute Christmas travel tech gifts – QDOS chargers and power will keep you connected no matter where you are or where you go and are all portable and an ideal gift for you or that tech lover in your life,

PowerLink COMBI 8-in-1 USB-C Hub – £49.99

  • Space Grey, multi-port USB-C Hub with tuck in cable design
  • Charge your USB-C enabled MacBook/laptop with pass through PD charging at Max 100W
  • 3 x USB 3.1 (10Gb/s high speed transfer)
  • 1 x USB-C (PD 3.1, Max 100W)
  • 1 x HDMI (4K display)
  • 1 x Audio Jack (3.5m)
  • 1 x SD card reader (480Mbps)
  • 1 x Micro SD (TF) card reader (480Mbps)
  • 10cm built in cable
  • Slim and light 8 in 1 hub, easy to transport

  • PowerCube TRIO 45W Power Adapter, black – £69.99

45W European PowerCube (Dual Port USB-C power adapter)

  • Charge at 45W when charging 1 device with 1 port
  • Charge 2 devices simultaneously at 20W and 25W high speed charge
  • Charge your iPhone and iPad simultaneously, in one location
  • Programmable Power Supply (PPS) – Tailors the most efficient charge to the connected device
  • GaN technology – Improved energy efficiency, heat dissipation & compact housing
  • Optimised for Apple devices

USB-C to lightning (MFI) and USB-C to USB-C cable

  • 1.2m length cable
  • Supports Power Delivery (PD)- enabling high speed charging – Max 60W
  • Reinforced cable- reduces breakage and prolongs cable life
  • Something about be MFI certified
  • PowerMag 3-in-1 Wireless Charger – £69.99

3-in-1 wireless charger

  • Conveniently charge your everyday Apple accessories in one central location
  • Dedicated charging points for iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods
  • Compatible with any MagSafe enabled iPhone
  • Snap your iPhone into place with optimal magnetic alignment
  • Foldable design, Ideal for carrying and transporting
  • Perfect viewing angle for watching videos
  • Pocket sized – easily carry in your pocket or bag
  • Seamless charging at home, at the office or on-the-go​
  • USB-C to USB-C cable (1.2m)

ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces For Those Who Dare: Transcendence Virtual Launch Event for CES 2024

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced For Those Who Dare: Transcendence, a virtual launch event that will introduce brand-new high-performance gaming products at CES® 2024. ROG, the leading brand in the gaming technology industry, is gearing up to unveil its latest cutting-edge innovations at the highly anticipated show in Las Vegas in order to once again push the boundaries of what’s possible in the gaming world and beyond.

The event will be kicked off with a virtual launch event taking place on January 8, 2024, at 4 p.m. PST (11 p.m. UK time) on the ROG event website. The ROG products presented during the virtual launch event, and many more new and exciting innovations, will then be available for hands-on demonstrations and testing at the ASUS & ROG CES 2024 Media Showroom on the 3rd floor of The Venetian Expo, Meeting Room #3102, on January 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST and on January 9-11 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST.

As ROG is the No.1 gaming brand committed to excellence, audiences can expect to witness powerful new gaming products including the new ROG Zephyrus series laptops, the new ROG Phone 8, displays, components, peripherals, and more at this event. The ROG Phone 8 is a true all-around talent with a completely revamped camera and tons of gaming-friendly features. This year’s latest products will provide gamers with an unrivaled gaming experience both at home and on the go, thanks to their clever designs and unmatched performance, whether it’s on your couch or on the way to school and work. Get ready to experience true power in the palm of your hand! Plus, ROG is also going to unveil a new approach to component design, with innovative powerful and stylish new desktop PCs that will revolutionize the image of open-architecture products.

But that is not all! In the spirit of celebration, ROG is thrilled to announce an exclusive giveaway campaign that will run during the live-streamed event on YouTube. As part of this exciting initiative, ROG will be giving away one ROG Ally every minute, on average, providing gaming enthusiasts with the opportunity to experience the unparalleled quality and innovation that defines the ROG brand.

ROG invites all gaming enthusiasts and tech aficionados worldwide to stay tuned for this monumental event and join us online at https://rog.asus.com/event/ces to watch the show as ROG unveils its latest gaming products. ROG also invites them to join us in Las Vegas to get a closer look at the latest ROG innovations.

Virgin Media’s Ireland AM to broadcast world-first AI-inspired show tomorrow

Ireland AM, the country’s longest-running breakfast television show, will wake up the nation tomorrow morning with a world-first, broadcasting through co-creating content with the power of artificial intelligence.

Set to revolutionise morning television, the AI-powered special has been shaped entirely by input from ChatGPT and Google Bard, two of the world’s most popular AI content generation platforms, to create an innovative blend of entertainment and information. Delving deep into the capabilities of AI, the show will focus on what unique and imaginative content it can create on the live three-hour show presented by Tommy Bowe, Muireann O’Connell, Alan Hughes and Deric Hartigan.

A world-first, the live show tomorrow, Thursday 14th December, will be pushing the boundaries of what was once deemed impossible with the help of international companies such as the first provider of synthetic media for long form TV, StudioNeural. Tune in for a special mystery guest, a live cooking challenge and more!

Anthony Nilan, Head of Content Strategy at Virgin Media Television, said: “Ireland AM has been a trusted and valuable information source for Irish viewers for nearly 25 years. This AI curated show is about using current accessible versions of artificial intelligence tools and giving our viewers, presenters, and production team a taste of what it is capable of and how it could potentially assist us. It also ensures that Ireland AM is best placed to ask the important questions and give real insight into the emerging technology as it develops further.”

From the formatting and content of the show to the scriptwriting and interviews, AI will be doing the thinking for us from 7am – 10am!

Watch the special AI ‘Ireland AM’ from 7am-10am tomorrow morning on Virgin Media One and Virgin Media Player.

Drones – Register as an Operator, get Trained and Know the Rules Before You Fly, Cautions Aviation Authority

The Irish Aviation Authority, An Garda Síochána and Dublin City Council today launched the ‘Drone Safely This Christmas’ Campaign. If you’re thinking of getting a drone this Christmas, you need to make sure you register as an Operator on the IAA website and that you know the rules before you fly. This advice comes ahead of the busiest shopping days in the lead up to Christmas.

Jim Gavin, Chief Operations Officer of the Irish Aviation Authority commenting on drone safety said: 

“Drone use has increased significantly in recent years. Piloting a drone is fun but it comes with responsibility to fly it safely while respecting people’s privacy. Remember a drone is not a toy and can have very serious consequences if it collides with a person, an animal or an another aircraft. So, if you do get a drone this Christmas, remember it’s your responsibility to know the rules and fly it safely.”

Inspector John Egan, Garda Air Support Unit added:

“Breaches of EU Drone Regulations are enforced by the Irish Aviation Authority. An Garda Siochana also has a number of enforcement powers where a criminal offence has occurred, or is suspected to have occurred, with regard to the flying of Drones. Drones are not permitted to fly within five (5) kilometres of an airport.

Flying a Drone in this area creates a substantial risk to manned aviation. This risk may constitute a serious offence by way of Endangerment under Section 13 of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997. This offence carries a maximum penalty of seven (7) years in prison.

It is also an offence under Section 43 of the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1988 to cause a false alarm which interferes with the operation of an aircraft, aerodrome or air navigation installation. Flying a Drone within five (5) kilometres of an airport may cause such alarm and you will be guilty of an offence.

An Garda Siochana also has a power to seize a Drone where a member of an Garda Siochana reasonably suspects the Drone is being, or is intended to be operated in the commission of any offence.”

The Irish Aviation Authority became one of the first aviation regulators in the world to introduce mandatory drone registration and regulations in December 2015. Consumers who own a drone that is over 250gr or has a camera, are legally required to register as a drone operator. If you are a drone operator, drone safety is your responsibility. You need to ensure you are always in control of the drone and that you remain compliant with the law.

“Thankfully the vast majority of drone users are compliant with the regulations. However, we are concerned, with the rapid growth of drone usage, that not all new pilots may be away of their responsibilities which can lead to unsafe flying. If you see anyone not complying with the regulations, we encourage people to contact the IAA. Reckless use of a drone or inappropriate use of a drone camera may result in prosecution,” Enda Walsh, UAS Manager/Drones Champion from the Irish Aviation Authority added. 

            

For more information on IAA Drone Safety Regulations and registration process, visit www.iaa.ie/drones

Mater Hospital becomes the first hospital in Ireland to integrate Artificial Intelligence technology across Radiology to accelerate emergency care

The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital has become the first hospital in Ireland to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its Radiology Department in order to accelerate emergency care. This has resulted in rapid notification of suspected pathologies, enhanced patient care and is freeing up valuable time for staff in the Department.

Since the introduction of the AI-assisted software this year, more than 15,600 patient scans have been analysed. Over 700 pathologies were correctly flagged by AI within 2-3 minutes of the scan being completed, with 500 intracranial haemorrhages and 200 pulmonary emboli being identified.

On out-patient scans, 50 pulmonary emboli were also flagged where the scans were being performed to assess other medical conditions. The overall accuracy of the software in real Irish clinical practice has been deemed to be highly sensitive and specific, with an accuracy rate of more than 90%.

The Mater Hospital has implemented four new technologies, including AI assistance on: CT pulmonary angiograms, incidental pulmonary embolism notification on CT scans, intracranial haemorrhage detection on CT head scans and cervical spine fracture detection on CT C-Spine scans.

The screening platform, made by Aidoc, operates on an ‘always-on’ basis, meaning it is constantly running in the background in order to analyse medical imaging data, flag urgent findings, and highlight cases that should be prioritised and brought to the immediate attention of consultants. The use of the software in Radiology at the Mater has significantly reduced report turnaround times, while also improving diagnostic accuracy and streamlining workflows.  The development of AI in healthcare clinical settings is being supported by Pillar Centre for Transformative Healthcare based at the Mater Hospital.

Mater Hospital Consultant Radiologist Professor Peter MacMahon said: “Our experiences have underscored the tangible benefits of AI, notably in expediting critical diagnoses and reducing turnaround times by rapidly flagging anomalies detected in scans. This allows Radiologists to prioritise the reading of these results and verify their accuracy before deciding upon a further course of action.”

The software underwent rigorous scrutiny, verification and testing at the Mater Hospital during a trial phase from April until August before the technology was fully deployed across the Radiology Department. The software is used to augment rather than replace the capabilities of radiologists at the hospital in emergency settings, ensuring that human scrutiny, verification and expertise is still at the centre of reading the scans.

Alan Sharp, CEO of the Mater Hospital, said: “The introduction of AI tools at the Mater’s Radiology Department demonstrates the strong emphasis we place on innovation and development. The integration of AI at the Mater serves to enhance patient outcomes and add efficiencies which ensure our patients receive the best standard of care we can possibly offer. The Mater strives to be a national leader in deploying cutting-edge technological innovations such as Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.”

Mike Burns, Director of Sales for Aidoc in the UK and Ireland, commented on the partnership, saying, “We are proud to collaborate with The Mater Hospital, a healthcare institution known for its dedication to patient care and innovation. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to improving healthcare delivery and impacting patient outcomes in Ireland.”

Early next year, the Mater plans to trial further specialised AI tools, focusing on the analysis of bone and chest X-rays in the Emergency Department. These tools, designed to promptly flag pathologies and accelerate patient triage, are set to further enhance the Mater’s diagnostic capabilities and reduce waiting times for patients, while freeing up valuable time for frontline healthcare staff.

Tech Review – Twinkly Candies Candles HD smart lights

The festive season is well and truly here and we have a range of tech for the home indoors and outdoors to brighten things up and show off to your neighbours and it is already heating up on the street here but I have some cool lights here for both inside and out to let them step back and enjoy.

Twinkly has been in my home now some years and this year we are taking the festive approach with real tech this time and whats more these can be controlled via an app on your smartphone be it Android or iOS with cool designs and colours which will get the neighbours talking.

First up is their new Candies candles. they come in a few styles and we picked the candle shaped version, you can also get pearls, stars and hearts. There is a cable colour choice too which is clear Green or Black, we picked the clear cable.

The presentation is nice and inside the box you get two separate bundles of candies wrapped up to make life a bit easy as you have 2X 19.6 ft of cable to deal with so there is plenty to get creative with, you do not have to have them on the tree as the box suggests but you can create designs or wrap around current items in your home and so on.

With 16 million colours, you can unleash your full creativity using the free Twinkly app available on iOS and Android. The Twinkly app is also compatible with voice assistants including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. Thanks to Twinkly’s exclusive mapping function, you can completely customise your lighting effects to your heart’s desire and instantaneously transform any living space into a playful canvas of beautiful, radiant colours and ambiance.

Setting up is simple and takes a few minutes once you have planned how you are going to execute you grand design or put on your Christmas Tree. You have a USB-C plug which is great and there is a control on the plug for the simpler things that changes the colours and how they operate but the app is where it is all at.

The APP

Features

  • Multicolour RGB LEDs: Choose from pearl, candle, star or heart-shaped Candies. Great as mood lighting in the living room, for your kids’ bedroom, for gaming, or as Christmas decoration
  • Unleash your Creativity: Enjoy a variety of ready-to-play customisable effects or craft your unique light show by choosing from 16 million colours with the Twinkly App for the ultimate decorative lighting
  • Gaming Integrations: Perfect for content creators, gamers and streamers. Compatible with the Homey app, Razer Chroma RGB and OMEN Light Studio for the ultimate gaming experience
  • USB-C Powered: Versatile indoor use, perfect for cosy nights in, festive celebrations or streaming setups – without ever running out of battery
  • Smart Home Device: Switch lights on and off, dim them or apply timers with the Twinkly app and use Twinkly Music (sold separately) to sync music with your lights. Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit

BUY 

Video Review

PayPal study reveals that 71 per cent of people in Ireland establish a budget for the holiday season

New research from PayPal unwraps consumer expectations and beliefs relating to Christmas shopping and spending during the festive season.

PayPal’s 2023 Festive Spending Snapshot – conducted by Censuswide and polling more than 1,000 consumers who celebrate the holiday season across Ireland revealed that 71 per cent of people actively establish a budget for the holiday season. However, despite their best intentions, 74 per cent of these budget-setters often overspend during the holiday season.

Budgeting plans for the holidays

Perhaps unsurprisingly, more than half (57%) of people get stressed when it comes to planning their Christmas budgets and 37 per cent would like better control over their holiday expenses.

Popular tips and trends among Christmas shoppers across Ireland included:

  • Ringing the bells for budgets – Out of the shoppers who actively establish a budget for the holiday season, 36 per cent allocate budgets per person that they need to buy for. Just under a third (32%) say that having a budget makes them less stressed/more relaxed and some 26 per cent set one to prevent them from dipping into their savings.
  • Jingling rather than mingling – A quarter (25%) of people in Ireland are forgoing their work Christmas parties to make their budgets stretch further this Christmas. Furthermore, attending New Year’s Eve parties are off the list of 24 per cent of consumers to reduce costs.
  • Sleighing with saving – Thirty-two per cent of consumers plan to pay for goods using loyalty points or rewards, while 28 per cent will compare prices using apps to cut back on spending this year. Moreover, 21 per cent will use a digital wallet (like PayPal) to track online purchases and 18 per cent will shop online this year.

Festive shopping habits

When it comes to online shopping, respondents cited main benefits which included saving time (48%), helps them to avoid crowds (44%), better offers (36%), more competitive prices (33%), greater variety (31%) and it enables them to complete their shopping earlier (27%).

On timing, 57 per cent of consumers expect to have their Christmas shopping finished by the 12th of December. On the other hand, the county with the highest proportion of last-minute shoppers – those that wait until after 20th December – is Monaghan (50%). This was followed by Offaly (29%), Kerry (28%) and Carlow (27%).

Looking beyond Christmas, 60 per cent of survey respondents usually shop in the January sales, with just over a third (34%) picking up presents for the following year. The expected average spend in the coming January sales is €248.

Are Irish people rationalising spending?

The study revealed people’s concerns when buying Christmas presents. These included delivery/arrival times (62%), overspending (61%) being scammed (57%), shopping on unfamiliar websites (49%) and filling in financial details when making purchases (46%).

However, despite the concern around excessive expense when Christmas shopping, more than three quarters (77%) of people have justified spending over their budget. About a quarter (28%) agree that ‘buying one and getting one free’ means they can treat themselves to the free item.

Meanwhile, 27 per cent typically spend enough to get free delivery so that they don’t lose money and 23 per cent believe that getting something for half price means they can make their budget go further.

The leading reasons for rationalising spending during this time of year were found to be that it is a means of relaxation (27%), gift-giving fosters emotional connections (25%) and it makes people feel less guilty (23%).

As for what’s driving this spending over their budget among consumers, more than a third (36%) cited much higher prices this year.

Speaking about the findings, Maeve Dorman, Senior Vice President, PayPal, commented: “It’s clear that people in Ireland are conscious of the cost associated with Christmas, with many justifying the expense and others overspending. But this is where “festive maths” comes in. It means planning and sticking to a budget, while being smart with spending. From tracking transactions and using Honey for discounts or using PayPal at Checkout, festive maths enables people to take better control of their finances and enjoy the holiday season.”

Refer to the PayPal website for more information on easy budgeting solutions for the festive season.