Developing the assistive technology consumer market for people aged 50–70

Abstract

Within the United Kingdom (UK), assisted living technologies are mostly provided through statutory health and social care services following assessment of individual need and application of eligibility criteria. This paper describes the first UK study to explore and develop business approaches and innovations required to make electronic assisted living technologies more accessible to consumers in their fifties and sixties. A robust mixed-method approach was used including a large sample size for a consumer survey, triangulation of methods and confirmation of research findings through validation workshops. This three-year study makes significant and original contributions to understanding consumer needs in this rapidly changing market and offers unique insights into the needs and wants of people aged -. Analysis shows significant differences between consumer and business perceptions, indicating that marketing is not closely aligned to consumers' needs and is affecting the development of the market. New approaches to consumer-led business models are presented to improve information and marketing aimed at --year-old consumers. A 'Broker/Independent Advisor' business model showed most potential for meeting the needs of both consumer and business stakeholders. Findings support future development of an assisted living consumer market to meet growing levels of need and demand, and to offer greater consumer choice of mainstream technologies to enable people to age in place.

Carers’ experience of using assistive technology for dementia care at home: a qualitative study

“…As in other research,19 44 45 ease of use, providing a sense of reassurance, considerations of safety and autonomy were all reasons for carers to consider using AT. Similar to other reports on caring for an elderly population in the community,23 46 we found that carers continued to use AT regardless of having an increase in formal care services or having to find information and fund the purchase of the AT themselves. AT appeared to complement carer support by redeployment of carer time to more meaningful activities and interactions with the person with dementia.…”

Raising the Digital Profile of Facial Palsy: National Surveys of Patients’ and Clinicians’ Experiences of Changing UK Treatment Pathways and Views on the Future Role of Digital Technology

“…The main factors limiting NMR adherence could all be addressed through the use of real time digital technology. However, for the type of wearable technology being considered, product design will be an additional factor likely to influence adherence [ 64 ], especially in the younger 30- to 45-year age group affected by this condition [ 3 ]. However, although the study clearly demonstrates positive attitudes toward the introduction of digital technology, economic barriers may prove to be a challenge.…”

The Future of Robots in a Super-Aged Society

“…Various products currently exist to support older people in their own homes, although there is evidence of limited mass-market adoption by older adults living at home [10] and a poor fi t between people's daily lives and the technologies produced [11,12]. One reason may be insuffi cient involvement of older people in the design of these technologies [13].…”