Moving beyond obvious markets of entertainment and security systems, home technology can enable greater independence and safety across the lifespan. New developments in technology can enable older adults to live independently and safely at home. These innovations also empower and provide peace of mind for caregivers. Increasing access to technologies that are embedded within the environment allows for remote control of our homes, while the expansion of home health technologies permits all generations to be actively involved in their own, as well as their loved one's health. This chapter will discuss and explore ambient-assisted living (AAL) technologies that support productive ageing vis-à-vis universal design (UD), sensory needs and changes which occur with age and disability, as well as in the context of the societal and demographic drivers creating demand. Product usability analysis through an occupational therapist lens, considering UD principles to feature match solutions to enable health, well-being, social connectedness and engagement, is to be addressed.

Chapter Contents:

• 15.1 Common societal drivers
• 15.1.1 Ageing population
• 15.1.2 Desire to age in place
• 15.1.3 Housing and community
• 15.2 Role of occupational therapy
• 15.2.1 Person-Environment-Occupation Model
• 15.2.2 Distinct value of occupational therapy
• 15.3 Universal design
• 15.3.1 Equitable use
• 15.3.2 Flexibility of use
• 15.3.3 Simple and intuitive use
• 15.3.4 Perceptible information
• 15.3.5 Tolerance for error
• 15.3.6 Low physical effort
• 15.3.7 Size and space for approach and use
• 15.4 AAL: enabling health, well-being and engagement in life
• 15.4.1 Well-being
• 15.4.1.1 Fall detection/prevention
• 15.4.1.2 Smart home automation for safety and remote monitoring
• 15.4.1.3 Case study
• 15.4.2 Health
• 15.4.2.1 Mental health
• 15.4.2.2 Case study: health monitoring at home
• 15.4.3 Social interaction
• 15.4.4 Engagement in life
• 15.4.4.1 Activities of daily living
• 15.4.4.2 Instrumental activities of daily living
• 15.5 Concluding statement
• References

Inspec keywords: patient treatment; security; handicapped aids

Other keywords: security systems; occupational therapist lens; home technology; UD; AAL technologies; home health technologies; entertainment systems; demographic drivers; product usability analysis; universal design; ambient assisted living technologies

Subjects: Computer assistance for persons with handicaps; Biology and medical computing