Future Concepts to Promote Independence: An Introduction

The goal of assistive technology is to offer possible solutions to problems that occur in the process of living. Today A.T. encourages independence through those technologies. The future offers even more promise toward the concept of positive aging for all. Future changes in our transportation systems, urban design and in mobility aids will offer even more options to promote positive aging for all. Future designs in robotics and artificial intelligence will open windows that we can’t even imagine.  Yes, the world is working to address the needs of our most senior population with the overall goal of empowerment for all. Let’s learn about these concepts together!

Key Concepts in Assistive Technology Now and in The Future

1.     Simple Adaptive Equipment: Any tool or device designed to help individuals complete everyday tasks. Examples include cup holders, adaptive kitchen tools, cutting aides, grab bars and stairlifts. These simple tools will continue to be developed into the future making tools more accessible and designed for all users needs.

2.     Cognitive Assistive Technology Supports: Currently these support aides include smartphone applications, memory aides, smart speakers. Anything from navigation aides to apps designed to deter cognitive loss. Technology supports of the future include continued development of these concepts with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence to aide senior populations and deter cognitive decline.

3.     Smart Home Technologies: Technologies designed to make your home as safe as possible anticipating your environmental needs and promoting your independence. Examples include voice-activated assistants, medication reminders, smart home monitoring devices, and automated lighting. In the future these systems will be a natural part of home design making homes of the future safer and easily accessible for all.

4.     Wearables: Devices designed to keep individuals safe that they can wear. These currently include things such as smart watches and inserts for shoes that monitor vital signs, track physical activity, and provide location detection. Wearables of the future will incorporate a mix of augmented reality (AR), speakers, multimedia capabilities and artificial intelligence (AI). This will allow individuals to seamlessly be provided input that will promote independence and safety.

5.     Telehealth: Technology that allows healthcare to be provided in the home via electronic devices. This allows doctors and therapists to treat all individuals allowing them to take charge of their healthcare through telemedicine. Telehealth options in the future will be even more convenient offering more options to address medical needs all over the world in real time. Not only will individuals be able to speak with medical professions, but simple lab tests and medical interventions will be able to happen in real time during those consultations.

6.     Robotics: More and more robots are being developed to provide personal care, social interaction and monitor safety for individuals in their home environment. Robotics is currently in its infancy. New robotic systems are being developed every day to address not only individual needs but are being developed to target global issues such as ocean clean up, innovations to farming solutions and our food supply making access to nutrition a right for all.

7.     Transportation Systems: Transportation systems of the future will include smart systems taking you to and from your targeted destination either individually or in a group. These systems will be designed to reduce carbon emissions, promote safety, increase autonomous travel and promote efficiency which will be critical in urban environments of the future. 

8.     Architectural/Urban Designs: Environments in the future will focus on the needs of senior populations by creating accessible infrastructures, providing safe spaces for social interaction, and by designing accessible walking paths for all individuals. Promoting a green infrastructure will address mental health and relief of stress. Designing spaces that allow easy access to local shops, medical facilities and access to recreational activities will be the norm.

9.     Inclusivity in Design of Products: Including all types of individuals when creating products is essential to the success of that product. Whether it be creating larger buttons for cell phones that provide voice feedback, or creating fashion that is easily adaptable to people of all abilities ensures that all users are able to access these as independently as possible.  It is essential to create solutions that genuinely meet older adults needs and preferences. Inclusivity of older adults in the design of such products is crucial to its success.

Conclusion

The future can seem a little overwhelming. By learning about different concepts that are currently in their infancy will allow us to make decisions as knowledgeable users. Innovations in technology promote safety, social interactions, and independence in a world where senior populations are becoming more and more the primary population. Continue to follow us as we delve into more specific assistive technologies, explore how whole communities are integrating these tools into their daily lives and share ideas. Together let’s help to create a world that embraces aging with positivity and empowers seniors to live vibrant and fulfilled lives.