Defining gerontechnology for R&D purposes

Abstract

Gerontechnology is an interdisciplinary field that links existing and developing technologies to the aspirations and needs of aging and aged adults. It helps support 'successful aging', is organized according to the WHO definition of health, and is a response to the combination of the aging of society and rapidly emerging new technologies. Distinguishing it from other technology approaches is its focus on the total human life-span, its recognition of different technology generations, its cross-fertilization of specific technology and gerontology disciplines, its public health goals and the encompassing of all domains of human activity. An enhanced quality of life in older adults is the ultimate goal of gerontechnology.

The gerontechnology engineer

“…In the second analysis step, the authors independently classified the remaining 1524 periodical publications, proceedings, books and academic theses by (i) application or life domain, and (ii) academic discipline as recognized in gerontechnology 5 . In the first round a classification was accepted when at least 2 of the 3 votes agreed.…”

Addressing Maslow’s deficiency needs in smart homes

“…Although all levels of needs are neither age-nor culture dependent, their diversity increases with age and varies among cultures 8,9 . In addition, the variation in individual demands broadens as one goes from the basic to the higher deficiencies to be supported 7 .…”

“…Since older adults generally do not wish to have technologies in their homes before they need them, the smart-home systems must have a large degree of adaptability with different functionalities activated at different times 8 .…”

Analysis of the Factors Influencing National R&D Performance Regarding the Aged Society: Focused on Gerontechnology

“…Even though S&T has been disregarding the role of resolving problems occurred by population aging, its interaction with the demographic transition is required to fulfill the need of the novel demands [5][6] [7] [8]. In the past, technology domain such as assistive technology has been developed products or services for the elders, but yet, was not able to sufficiently response to their various aspirations [9].…”