Gerontechnology

Modern societies are aging and, at the same time, our everyday life is determined by relentlessly rapid changes in technologies, services and environments. Research, design and development in the field of ' gerontechnology - technology and aging - is of increasing importance not only for older persons, but for the quality of life in our society at large. Gerontechnology is concerned with prevention, compensation, enhancement, and aids to caregivers: - Prevention addresses the issues of a healthy, safe and comforting environment, of „healthy housing“ in „smart homes“ including rather simple measures such as, for instance, the adaptation of the bath room to prevent falls. - Compensation refers to a broad spectrum of technologies which support us in case of decline in our perceptual, motor or cognitive abilities, and which assist in cure, rehabilitation, and care. - Enhancement makes us aware that life in old age is not only determined by impairments and loss of competencies, but also by opportunities for growth and development, by new activities, ways of self expression, education, and new social roles; new technologies can make us „fit for life“ also in our „Third Age“. - Aids to caregivers stands for the many ways the social and professional environment supporting older persons can be supported by technologies adapted both to the needs of older persons and the persons caring for them. This is of special importance, since there will be fewer people available to take care of a growing percentage of older persons.