Ubiquitous technologies for older people

Abstract

In this paper, we present a close reading of work in ubicomp of applications for older people. Starting from three lines of enquiry defined in the inaugural issue of this journal, we discuss how ubicomp research has presented the relationship between technologies and older users. We base our reasoning on a review of papers published in Personal and Ubiquitous Computing (1997Computing ( -2014. The lines of enquiry refer to paradigms (functional vs. sociotechnical), users (stereotype and involvement), and contexts (indoor and/or outdoor). These themes address the presentation of SUITCASE project (SUstainable Integrated & Territorial CAre SErvices). This is a two-year research on care services for older citizens within the smart home construct. We develop an initial framework that not only provides a cohesive view of technologies for older people, but also serves as a salient guideline for reflective design which extends beyond the target population. This framework may also address future design projects, funding schemes, and editorial policies.

From A to Z: Wearable technology explained

“…Younger generations 3 are exposed to technologies from an early age, making adoption and use instinctual. Yet, older adults remain excluded from aiding technology design and development for their generation, described as a lack of involvement to build their (own) future [14]. Furthermore, WT often lacks considerations for the wearer's physical, psychological and social preferences [15] as holistic end-user preferences need consideration [16].…”

“…Furthermore, WT often lacks considerations for the wearer's physical, psychological and social preferences [15] as holistic end-user preferences need consideration [16]. Contemporary frameworks exist to guide WT design ensuring a human-centred approach [16], as well as novel reflective themes which could be more broadly applied to other topics influencing WT [14].…”

“…13 The rationale to do so ensures routine integration of information systems, such as transforming paper into digital records and ensuring universal interoperability among all forms of electronic data. 14 This is of upmost importance when considering (e.g.) file formats, naming conventions or metadata where no common terminology exists although interfacing through the HL7/FIHR would facilitate a useful starting point.…”

User Requirements for Inclusive Technology for Older Adults

“…Previous research in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) has been mainly focused on the physical decline in old age, defining it as a deficit to be solved by technology (Cozza et al, 2017;Pu et al, 2019;Yusif and Hafeez-Baig, 2016). Old age is described as multiple health infirmities and conditions that need to be taken care of (Vines et al, 2015b).…”

“…Old age is described as multiple health infirmities and conditions that need to be taken care of (Vines et al, 2015b). Numerous technological interventions are developed to support healthcare and disability-free living in later life (Cozza et al, 2017;Peruzzini and Germani, 2014).…”