Technology can play an important role in supporting independence for older adults as the population ages. The document discusses 6 key domains where technology could help: communication, employment, learning, health, living environments, and transportation. Within each domain, several innovative technologies are described that could enhance independence and quality of life for seniors, such as smartphones, telehealth, online learning, smart home devices, and transportation apps. Potential barriers to technology adoption by older adults like physical/cognitive limitations, costs, and lack of training are also outlined.

1. Technology for
Adaptive Aging
Seminar By,
Ann Merina Mathew
MPT (Geriatrics)-222196001
Moderated By,
Dr. Vijay Kumar
Additional Professor, KMC Mangalore.

2. TABLE OF CONTENTS
01
02
03
04
Introduction to Adaptive
aging
Technology -6 Domains
Potential Barriers
Purpose,Need and Future
Research

3. INTRODUCTION
The proportion of the population older than age 65 is increasing at a rapid rate
with sed life expectancy and that the great majority of older adults choose to
continue to live at home rather than be in assisted living facilities or in nursing
homes.
It is both socially valuable and cost-effective to support the independence of
this aging population in as many of the aspects of their lives as possible,
whether by supporting their
 continued employment
 independent living
 healthcare arrangements
 access to transportation
 or educational enrichment.

4. Many experts predict that technology can and will play an important role in
supporting the independence of older adults.
The life-span effects of aging include changes in sensory, perceptual, motor
performance, cognitive functioning, and the ability to operate in the world.
The National Institute on Aging research is designed to develop such knowledge,
to support the design of technologies that will be useful and usable for older adults
aging normally as well as those with disabilities and impairments.
A list of such factors for consideration are access, cohorts, culture and language,
customization, expectations, legal constraints, stereotyping, privacy, safety,
training, trust, usability, control, autonomy, and dignity.

5. 6 Domains identified as important in the daily life of older adults:
communication, employment, health, learning, living environments, and
transportation.
There is an urgent need to hasten the development of infrastructure to support the
kinds of technology of interest to the older population.
It is also important to ensure that the most valuable, accessible, cost-effective, and
user-centered alternatives are developed.

6. What is Adaptive Aging?
“Aging" refers to the process of growing older, which is associated with a
range of physical, cognitive, and social changes.
These changes can vary widely among individuals, and researchers
often study how people adapt to the aging process in different ways.
This adaptation may involve lifestyle choices, health behaviors, social
engagement, and use of technology that assists people who are aging
normally, as well as those with disabilities and impairments.

7. Potential Barriers
 Barriers to technology included physical limitations, limited infrastructure,
and financial costs.
 Limited access to technology -A study in the United States reported that
older adults' internet utilization was associated with their age, income,
literacy, and place of residence. For example, those with a lower income
used Internet less frequently compared to others.
 Another study also reported that the cost of electronic devices was the main
barrier related to device access and use by older adults.
 Low incomes and high health-related and household costs can reduce older
adults' ability to access necessary devices.

8.  Unfavorable attitude toward technology- For instance, some consider
technology unnecessary or a threat to their health.
Peek et al. showed that older adults' acceptance of technology was associated
with their attitudes toward the benefits of technology, perceived consequences,
perceived personal proficiency, perceived need for technology, and willingness to
use technology.
 Another study indicated that the design of electronic devices, such as small
sizes of keypads, is not age-friendly, which is a main barrier to their utilization
by older adults.

9.  Educational limitations- Researchers believed that the barriers
include a lack of training and support.
 Physical and mental limitations can prevent older adults from using
technology.
External
Educational
Barrier
• lack of age-friendly devices, and
complicated user manuals
• lack of educational programs to train
older adults.
Internal
Educational
Barrier
• and a lack of confidence and motivation
about learning technology.

10. 01 Communication
Vision Impairment- many seniors experience age-related vision problems such as
presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects), macular degeneration, etc.
Mobility issues- arthritic pain, joint stiffness, feelings of loneliness and social
isolation, and difficulty in visiting the hospital.
 Smartphones and Tablets: These devices are becoming
more user-friendly with larger icons, simplified interfaces,
and voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant,
RAZ Memory Cell Phone: Built for Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
 Senior-Friendly Apps: Many apps cater specifically to older adults by offering
features such as medication reminders, health tracking, video calling, and social
networking. E.g. GrandPad (American tech), Jitterbug Smart2.

11.  Voice-Activated Devices: Smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home can
be used for voice commands, making it easy for seniors to ask questions, set
reminders, or make hands-free calls.
 Video Calling Solutions: Apps like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime enable face-to-
face communication with family and friends, bridging geographical gaps.
 Telemedicine: Telehealth platforms allow older adults to connect with healthcare
professionals for virtual appointments, medication management, and consultations
without leaving their homes.
 Assistive Communication Devices: These
specialized devices are designed for seniors with
hearing or speech impairments.
They can include hearing aids with Bluetooth
connectivity, speech-generating devices,
and text-to-speech apps.(Speechify)

12. Augmented Reality (AR): AR applications can provide visual aids and real-time information
to seniors, making their communication more engaging and informative. (google lens,Shopify
AR)
Robot Companions: Some robots, like the ElliQ or Paro, are designed to provide
companionship and assist with communication for lonely or isolated older adults.
Senior-Friendly Internet Browsers: Web browsers like "Silver Surfer" or "Eldy" offer
simplified interfaces with larger text and buttons for easier web browsing.
Voice and Speech Recognition: Voice recognition technology, such as Dragon
NaturallySpeaking, enables seniors to dictate text messages, emails, and documents rather
than typing.

13. 02 Employment
The research literature documents age-related changes in abilities, work
performance, as well as in occupational trends.
Technology can help older workers remain employed, maintain or upgrade
their skills, and support the transition to retirement through adaptive
interfaces.
Resistance to adaptation will mean the added costs of hiring and training
new employees and a loss of expertise that is likely to be difficult to replace.

14.  Age-Friendly Job Search Platforms: that are designed with older job seekers in mind,
featuring intuitive interfaces, age-inclusive job listings, and resources for career
changers.
(e.g. websites such as Indeed, Monster, and ZipRecruiter, AARP org.- (American Assc
of Retired Persons Job Board.)
 Remote Work Solutions: Technology that allows older adults to work from home or in
flexible arrangements, including virtual meeting tools, cloud-based collaboration
platforms, and project management software(e.g. Microsoft Teams, Zoom)
 Online Learning and Training: Accessible online courses and training programs for
older adults looking to acquire new skills or update existing ones, often through
platforms like Coursera & LinkedIn Learning.
 AI-Powered Job Matching: Online platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr
enable older adults to offer their skills and expertise on a freelance or contract basis.

15.  Career Networking Apps: Apps designed to help older adults build and maintain
professional networks, including LinkedIn and industry-specific networking platforms.
 Mentoring and Coaching Platforms: Virtual mentoring programs that connect older
adults with experienced mentors who can provide career guidance and support. (e.g.
Growth Mentor)
 Elder-Friendly Workspaces: Workplace design and
technology solutions that consider the needs of
older workers, such as adjustable desks,
ergonomic chairs, and lighting enhancements,
ergonomic keyboards, and screen readers.
 Job Retention and Transition Support: Technologies and services that assist older
workers in transitioning to new roles within their current organization, helping them adapt
to changing job requirements.

16. 03 Learning
Learning technologies are essential for older adults because they offer
opportunities for personal growth, cognitive stimulation, social
interaction, and continued relevance in an increasingly digital world.
Adaptive technologies can help bridge generational gaps and empower
older adults to lead fulfilling and informed lives.

17.  Online Learning Platforms: Accessible websites and apps that offer a wide range of
courses and educational content, allowing older adults to learn at their own pace from the
comfort of their homes. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer a variety
of free and paid courses.
 Adaptive Learning Software: Personalized learning platforms that adapt content and
assessments to the learner's individual abilities and needs, ensuring an optimal learning
experience. (EdApp, Adaptemy)
 Virtual Reality (VR) :
Immersive technologies that can transport
older adults to virtual classrooms, museums,
or historical sites, providing an engaging
and interactive learning experience.

18.  Tablets and E-Readers: Lightweight and user-friendly
devices with large fonts and touch interfaces
that make reading digital books, newspapers,
and educational materials more accessible to
older adults. (Kindle paperwhite, Audible, Libby)
 Digital Literacy Training: Specialized programs and apps designed to teach older adults
how to use computers, smartphones, and digital devices effectively.
 Language Learning Apps: Mobile apps like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone facilitate
language acquisition and fluency, helping older adults maintain mental agility.
 Cognitive Training Apps: Brain-training apps and games designed to improve memory,
attention, and problem-solving skills. (Lumosity, CogniFit brain training)

19.  Online Tutors and Virtual Instructors: Services that connect older adults with
tutors or instructors who can provide one-on-one lessons and support in various
subjects.
 Social Learning Networks: Online communities and social networks that enable
older adults to connect with peers who share their interests and engage in group
learning experiences.
 Intergenerational Learning Programs: Initiatives that bring together older
adults and younger generations for mutual learning and skill-sharing experiences.
 Voice-Activated Learning Assistants: Smart speakers like Amazon Echo and
Google Home that can answer questions, provide explanations, and offer
educational content through voice commands.

20. 04 Health
While aging is associated with certain challenges and declines in health,
many individuals can adapt to these changes and maintain a good quality of
life.
New technologies related to health for
older adults are continuously emerging
to improve their well-being, monitor
health conditions, and provide better
access to healthcare services.
Here are some innovative technologies
in the field of senior health:

21.  Wearable Health Devices: Wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers can
monitor heart rate, activity levels, and sleep patterns, and even detect falls. Some
also offer medication reminders and emergency alerts. (e.g. Activity tracker,
FitBit).
 Wearables with biofeedback capabilities can assist in pain management by
providing data on stress levels and relaxation techniques.
 Services like eSanjeevani and telehealth startups provide easy access to medical
advice and consultations.

22.  Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Wearable or home-based devices
that allow seniors to call for help in case of emergencies, often with fall detection
features.(e.g. pendants or bracelets)
 AI-Powered Diagnostic Tools: Artificial intelligence applications that can analyze
medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, to assist in early disease detection.
 Robot Assistants: Robots designed to
provide companionship, remind seniors
about medications, and monitor their
well-being. Loneliness and social isolation
can affect seniors' mental health.
(e.g. Nursebot)
 Robotic Exoskeletons: Exoskeleton
technology to assist seniors with mobility
and physical rehabilitation.

23.  Mobile apps like DailyRounds and Medisafe help seniors manage their medication schedules
and send reminders for timely dosages. Prevents medication errors and improves
adherence to treatment plans.
 GoodRx helps users compare prescription drug prices at different pharmacies and find
coupons, alerts you when a particular medication drops, and lets you know when you
may be due for a refill.
 Smart Pill Dispensers: Automated pill
dispensers with alarms and smartphone
connectivity to ensure medication adherence.
 Home Health Sensors: sensors placed around the home to track movements, detect
changes in routine, and ensure seniors are safe and healthy.
 Remote Physical Therapy: Virtual physical therapy sessions and apps that guide older
adults through exercises and rehabilitation routines.

24. 05 Living Environment
• Smart Home Automation: Smart devices like thermostats, lighting systems,
and security cameras that can be controlled remotely through voice commands
or mobile apps.
• Home Monitoring Systems: Advanced
sensor systems that monitor the home
environment for falls, unusual activity(e.g.
Medical Guardian,Aloe care health)

25. • Fall Detection and Prevention: Wearable or home-based devices equipped with
accelerometers and sensors that can detect falls and automatically call for help if
necessary.
• Home Security Systems: Modern security systems with features like video
doorbells, motion sensors, and remote monitoring to enhance the safety of the
living environment.
• Home Modification Technology: Tools and devices to adapt at home, such as
grab bars, shower benches, and ramps, to make it more accessible and safe for
older adults.

26. • Smart Mattresses and Beds: Mattresses equipped with sensors to monitor sleep
patterns and provide insights into sleep quality and disturbances.(Solaire mattress)
• Air Quality Monitors: Devices that track indoor air quality, including humidity,
temperature, and pollutant levels, and provide recommendations for
improvement.(Temptop M10 Air Quality Monitor)
• IoT-Based Home Safety: Internet of Things
(IoT) devices that can detect and alert to gas leaks,
water leaks, or other hazards in the home.

27. • Robotic Home Assistants: Robots designed to perform tasks like cleaning,
fetching items, and providing companionship to older adults.
• Augmented Reality (AR) for Home Repairs: AR apps that guide older
adults through DIY home repairs and maintenance tasks.
• Digital Reminiscence Tools: Apps and digital
picture frames that allow older adults to reminisce
by displaying family photos, videos, and voice
recordings.(Smart frame)
• Voice-Controlled Blinds and Curtains: Motorized blinds and curtains that
can be controlled via voice commands or smartphone apps, providing
convenience for seniors with mobility issues.

28. 06 Transportation
• Ride-sharing and On-Demand Transportation Apps: Services like Uber and
Lyft offer seniors a convenient way to request rides with the tap of a button,
providing an alternative to driving.
• Accessible Vehicle Services: Companies like GoGoGrandparent specialize in
arranging rides for seniors with accessible vehicles and drivers trained to assist
older adults.
• Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars have the potential to revolutionize
transportation for older adults by providing a safe and convenient means of getting
around, especially for those who can no longer drive themselves.(zPod)
• Senior-Friendly Navigation Apps: Navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps
can help seniors plan routes, avoid traffic, and find accessible transportation
options.

29. • Electric Mobility Scooters: Lightweight electric
scooters designed for seniors to travel short
distances within neighborhoods or communities.
• Bicycle-Sharing Programs: Bike-sharing services
with accessible bicycles and tricycles for seniors
to use for exercise and short trips.
• Smart Traffic Lights: Adaptive traffic light systems that adjust signal timings based on
traffic flow can reduce congestion and make intersections safer for older
pedestrians.(Dutch app allows elderly to 'hack' traffic lights)
• Pedestrian Safety Technology: Technologies like pedestrian detection and collision
avoidance systems in vehicles can help protect seniors while crossing streets.

30. • Public Transportation Accessibility Improvements: Investments in infrastructure, such
as low-floor buses, ramps, and elevators, to make public transportation more accessible to
seniors with mobility issues, and Apps that provide real-time update on public
transportation schedule.
• Smart Parking Solutions: Apps that help seniors find available parking spaces and pay
for parking digitally, reducing the stress associated with parking.(MyParking )
• Community Transportation Programs:
Initiatives that provide specialized transportation
services for seniors, including door-to-door
pickups, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and
group rides.

31. Examples of Accommodations to Enhance Functioning fo
Older Individuals Experiencing Sensory Loss
Vision
Visual field Lower height for directional and informational signs
Acuity Visual aids (glasses, contact lenses); magnifiers; large-print
books and devices; large-print computer software

32. Illumination UV-absorbing lenses; increased task illumination;
gooseneck lamps; 200-to 300-watt light bulbs
Glare Lamp shades, curtains, or blinds to soften light;
nonglare wax on vinyl floors;
carpeting; wallpaper or flat paints;
avoid shiny materials
such as glass or plastic furniture.

33. Dark adaptation Night-lights with red bulbs; pocket flashlights,
automatic light timers, light switches
at the point of entry to a room.
Color Bright, warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows);
avoid pastel hues; avoid monotones
Contrast Bright detail on dark backgrounds
(white lettering/black background); warm colors to
highlight handrails, steps;
place mats or table coverings
that contrast with plates
Depth perception Avoid patterned floor surfaces

34. Hearing
Hearing aids; pocket amplifiers; increasing bass and turning down treble on
radios, televisions; smoke alarms,
telephones, and doorbells with visual cues such as flashing lights; insulating
acoustic materials to minimize background noise.

35. Taste and smell
Taste: Color to increase perceived flavor intensity;
use of spices, herbs, and flavors to
enhance foods;
feel for bulges in canned goods to
detect spoilage;
check date stored of frozen foods
Smell: Adapt smoke detectors with loud buzzers;
safety-spring caps for gas jets on stoves;
vent kitchens in institutions to allow
residents to experience cooking aromas,
and place flowers in living areas

36. Touch
Tactile sensitivity: Introduce texture into the environment
through wall hangings, carpet, and
textured upholstery; use soft blankets
and textured clothing
Thermal sensitivity: Avoid temperature extremes
from air conditioning, hot bathwater,
heating pads

37. Benefits:
 Technology can facilitate the safety and
security of older adults.
 Can enable better communication and
coordination among healthcare providers.
 Help delay or avoid moving from their
home to alternative living environments
and may maximize their ability to live
independently.
 Technology applied across living
environments can provide cognitive
assistance, monitoring, and social
communication, thus optimizing “home”
for many older adults as they age.

38. • Research on how cultural factors affect the
acceptance and adoption of aging technologies
in India, as cultural norms can significantly
influence technology use among seniors
Cultural
sensitivity
• Study the security concerns related to the data
generated by aging technologies and develop robust
privacy safeguards.
Data Security
and Privacy
Future Research Consideration

39. Customization

40. In summary, the future of technology for adaptive aging should
encompass a wide range of areas, from healthcare and assistive
devices to social connectivity and ethical considerations. By
addressing these challenges through research and innovation, we
can better empower older adults to lead fulfilling, independent lives
as they age.

41. References
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42. THANKYOU